Air India Express is set to enhance air travel from Pune, Maharashtra, India with the launch of a direct flight to Bagdogra, West Bengal, India, starting May 1. This new service will operate five days a week, significantly reducing travel time for passengers who previously relied on connecting flights through Mumbai, Delhi, or Kolkata to access destinations in West Bengal and the Northeast region. Bagdogra serves as a crucial gateway to popular tourist spots like Darjeeling and Sikkim, making this route appealing for both leisure and business travelers. With the addition of this route, Air India Express will operate 96 weekly flights from Pune, further strengthening its connectivity in the region. Travelers have welcomed the initiative, highlighting the convenience and time savings it offers, particularly for families and senior citizens. The airline's summer expansion plan also includes reinstating other routes like Bagdogra–Chennai, indicating a focus on high-demand leisure corridors. Strong demand is anticipated for the Pune–Bagdogra service, especially during the holiday season as travelers seek cooler hill destinations to escape the summer heat.