International Airlines in India

Indian air sector is one of the biggest economic opportunities for any airlines. With Indian being the most populous countries and growing economy, many Indians like travelling abroad. Hence, operating international airlines from India can be a very good business opportunity.

Airline NameIndian Hub AirportStarted Operating in India
EmiratesIndira Gandhi Intl (Delhi)1985
Singapore AirlinesChennai Intl Airport1970s
LufthansaChhatrapati Shivaji Intl (Mumbai)1960
Qatar AirwaysIGI Airport, Delhi2000
British AirwaysIGI Airport, Delhi1924 (modern services since 1970s
Thai AirwaysNetaji Subhas Chandra Bose Intl1960
Etihad AirwaysIGI Airport, Delhi2004

List of International Airlines in India 2026

Below is a list of international airlines that is operational in India:

FAQs on International Airlines in India

1. How many international airlines fly in India?

Around 80 international airlines fly in India. India's privatized national air carrier, Air India (incl. Air India Express), is one of the of airlines companies that runs maximum international flights in India that serves destinations in Australia, Asia, North America, and Europe. 

2. How many kgs allowed in Air India international flight?

A total of 40kg, 35 kg, 25 kg, and 5 to 7  kg as checked baggage are allowed for passengers travelling in first class, business class, economy class, and infants in all classes, respectively.

3. Which was the first international flight of Air India?

The first international flight of Air India was a Lockheed Constellation L-749A named Malabar Princess took off from Bombay bound for London Heathrow and was registered as VT-CQP.

4. What is not allowed on international flights?

Explosives and flammable items, such as fireworks, gas, and aerosols; Illegal drugs; narcotics; firearms and ammunition are some of the strictly prohibited materials.

5. Which are the largest international airlines in India?

The largest airline in India with a 63.4% domestic market share as of July 2023 is Interglobal Aviation Limited, also known as IndiGo.