A group has been set up to call for direct flights from Scotland to India including representatives from the Consul General of India, VisitScotland, from businesses and education.
At an event held at the Consulate General of India it was explained that the absence of direct flights represents not only a missed opportunity for connectivity and collaboration, but also for economic growth. The Direct Flight Advocacy Group say that establishing flights between the two countries would bring substantial benefits for both as well as being more convenient for passengers.
The group referred to research from both Edinburgh and Glasgow Airports putting forward the case for direct flights and which shows a strong demand. The data shows a substantial increase in Indian diaspora settling in Scotland and record numbers of Indian tourists visiting the country. Christopher Tibbett, Aviation Director at Glasgow Airport said: “It is the highest-demand country without a flight to Scotland, and we are determined to make it happen.” Lynsey Burns Airline Relationship Manager at Edinburgh Airport echoed this saying: “he prospect of a direct flight route to India is so exciting and achievable. We have substantial data proving the demand, and we are committed to making this vision a reality.”
Gary Cox, Director for Aviation, Transport Scotland said: “India is a real priority market for us. We are working with airlines to incentivise them to come to Scotland. A new direct route can stimulate extra demand, and we are committed to securing a daily route.”
Denise Hill from VisitScotland’s Intermediate Marketing department said: “We’ve seen a huge growth in tourism post-Covid, particularly from high-spending international visitors. We are very keen to see direct flights from India, which would bring longer-staying and higher-spending visitors, further boosting our tourism industry.”
The Consul General of India said: “I am proud to support this initiative. Direct flights between Scotland and India will significantly enhance our cultural and economic exchanges, bringing our communities closer together. We see immense potential for growth in tourism, trade, and educational collaboration with the establishment of these direct routes.”
The group now plans to hold a further event in Glasgow next month when it will present the results of their survey.
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