India's Civil Aviation Ministry Launches Hub-Spoke Model for International Flights
Govt issues SOP for hub-spoke model for int'l flights; A-I trials in June
Business StandardImage: Business Standard
The Indian Civil Aviation Ministry has introduced a standard operating procedure for the hub and spoke model to enhance international flight connectivity. Air India will commence trial flights from Varanasi to London via Delhi starting June 1, aiming to streamline passenger transfers and improve the overall travel experience.
- 01The hub and spoke model aims to enhance connectivity between domestic and international flights.
- 02Air India will begin trial flights from Varanasi to London on June 1.
- 03Passengers will undergo immigration and customs clearance at the first departure point.
- 04DigiYatra enrollment will be mandatory for Indian nationals on international legs.
- 05The model is expected to decentralize passenger processing and reduce congestion at major airports.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Indian Civil Aviation Ministry has released a standard operating procedure (SOP) for implementing the hub and spoke (H&S) model, designed to improve domestic to international flight connectivity. Air India is set to initiate trial flights from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, to London via Delhi starting June 1. This model will facilitate smoother passenger transfers, with immigration and customs clearance occurring at the first point of departure, thereby enhancing the travel experience. Passengers will receive two boarding passes indicating their domestic and international segments. The SOP mandates DigiYatra enrollment for Indian nationals on the international leg, and airlines must appoint dedicated nodal officers at H&S airports to ensure passenger identity verification. The initiative aims to position India as a global aviation hub, optimizing aircraft utilization and decentralizing customs and immigration processes, thus reducing congestion at major airports. Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, emphasized that this shift marks a significant change in India's aviation landscape, enhancing connectivity and passenger experience.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
This model will improve travel options for passengers in smaller cities like Varanasi, making international travel more accessible.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think the hub and spoke model will improve international travel from smaller cities?
Connecting to poll...
More about Air India
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.

