Vistara has launched its inaugural flight between Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). The commemorative flight was scheduled to leave BOM at 19:10 IST and arrive at AUH at 20:40 GST. The three-hour flight made Vistara the first airline to offer premium economy class seating along this route in addition to its economy and award-winning business class. The route will be operated once daily, with an aircraft departing from and returning to BOM daily.

Expanded network

The airline has shared its excitement about the new route. It believes the route will be very profitable and offer steady demand for years to come. Many passengers regularly connect between the two cities, leading Vistara to conclude that the route will be a welcomed sight. As this new route is to be launched, the airline has encouraged travelers to verify that they meet all entry requirements between the two countries. It also advised that they stay informed on all current and ongoing travel restrictions to avoid any unnecessary disruptions in travel.

The CEO of Vistara, Vinod Kannan, shared the airline's excitement for this new route. Kannan stated that the airline has gradually expanded its presence in the gulf region. Claiming that this new route will make the perfect addition to the airline's ever-expanding network. Kannan said,

"We have been steadily strengthening our presence in the UAE and the rest of the Gulf region, and are excited to add Abu Dhabi to our growing international network. UAE's flourishing business, trade, and tourism make Abu Dhabi a perfect fit in our network. We are confident that travellers will appreciate the choice of flying India and South Asia's best airline on this route."

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Aircraft of choice

Registration VT-TQH, an Airbus A320neo, conducted the initial flight. The airline will likely continue using its Airbus A320 family members, as the route is short, and it has far more of this aircraft type than the Boeing 737. The airline currently has five 737s, two 787-9 Dreamliners, 41 A320s, and five A321neos.

Vistara's fleet of 53 aircraft has successfully carried over 35 million passengers since its first flight in 2015. All of its aircraft have been fitted with multiple cabin classes in accordance with the airline's high expectations. It has become a highly awarded airline, striving to offer the most premiere services in South Asia. The young airline is looking to add additional aircraft in the coming years to help with its expansion plans. This latest route addition will be one of the most comfortable flight experiences between the two destinations regardless of which aircraft is chosen for the route.

What do you think of this new route? Let us know in the comments below.