Air India and Delhi Airport begin transshipment trials

Air India has launched trials of its new Easy Connect hub-and-spoke service, marking another step in its effort to strengthen international connectivity through Delhi. The initiative is designed to make travel smoother for passengers flying from regional cities to overseas destinations by allowing them to complete key formalities at their origin airport before transferring through the airline’s hub.

Under the trial, eligible passengers can drop their baggage at the departure airport and complete immigration and check-in procedures there itself. This removes the need for repeated processing at the hub airport and is expected to reduce congestion, waiting time and overall travel stress. The programme is being tested on selected routes, beginning with Varanasi, and is aimed at creating a more seamless transfer experience for international travellers.

The Easy Connect model reflects Air India’s broader strategy to build a stronger hub-and-spoke network around Delhi. By linking more domestic points to its international services, the airline is looking to improve connectivity for passengers from smaller cities and increase the efficiency of its route network. The arrangement is also expected to help the carrier compete more effectively in the global aviation market by offering a more convenient transit experience.

Industry watchers see the trial as part of a wider push to modernise India’s air travel infrastructure and make transit operations more passenger-friendly. As international traffic grows, airlines and airports are under pressure to streamline transfer procedures, improve baggage handling and reduce delays. Air India’s move comes at a time when Indian aviation is increasingly focused on hub development, regional connectivity and better integration between domestic and international operations.

If the trials prove successful, the Easy Connect service could be expanded to more routes and destinations in the future. That would not only benefit passengers but also support Air India’s efforts to position Delhi as a more efficient gateway for international travel.