IndiGo, Delta, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic form partnership to enhance travel connectivity across India, North America, and Europe
IndiGo, Delta Air Lines, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic have unveiled plans to create a leading global partnership that connects India with Europe and North America. With India emerging as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, this collaboration places the country at its core. By combining IndiGo’s vast domestic network with Delta’s strong presence across North America and the transatlantic, Air France-KLM’s extensive connectivity in Europe and North America, and Virgin Atlantic’s established network in the U.K. and across the Atlantic, the alliance is set to deliver greater access, seamless travel, and a unified experience for passengers. Together, the airlines aim to link numerous cities across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and India, addressing the increasing demand for international travel while raising the bar for global connectivity and cooperation in the aviation sector.
Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, said, “IndiGo has embarked on an ambitious journey to become a global airline by 2030. This partnership represents another important milestone to pursue commercial synergies, operational excellence and innovation. This announcement not only expands our relationship with Air France–KLM and Virgin Atlantic but also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we welcome Delta Airlines as a valued partner. We are particularly excited to start our long-haul expansion from this Summer and connect with our partners’ networks to provide greater access to Europe and North America.”
Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, said, “This agreement is another example of our commitment to making travel more connected, more inclusive and more accessible. Combining our strengths with those of IndiGo, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic, will enable us to offer unparalleled connectivity and convenience, ensuring that our customers enjoy the highest standards of service and reliability across the globe. We look forward to restarting Delta’s direct service from the U.S. to India in the near future.”
Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, said, “We are very glad to extend our existing partnership with IndiGo and to do so alongside our partners Delta and Virgin Atlantic. India is a strategic market for Air France-KLM, where we have a strong and historic presence soon to increase. and we look forward to welcoming IndiGo customers on our flights and to play an active role in the country’s connectivity.”
Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said, “In our 25th year of flying to India, we’re delighted to build on our Joint Venture with Delta and Air France-KLM, and our successful codeshare with IndiGo, by going further with this partnership. As IndiGo starts long haul operations, we’ll connect four of the world’s largest economies, enhancing the travel experience for our guests, from greater connectivity and optimized flight times to loyalty benefits.”