Air India Express to Start Dubai Operations from Surat Airport

Surat : The wait for frequent fliers, especially diamantaires, is finally over. Air India Express will commence operations between Surat and Dubai starting December 17th, 2023. This news comes just as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to inaugurate the Surat airport’s expanded terminal building on the same day.

“The We Work For Working Airport Group (WWWAS) is thrilled to announce that Air India Express will begin taking bookings for the Surat-Dubai flight on December 14th,” said a representative of the group. This development marks a significant milestone in the growth of Surat’s aviation sector.

The Surat-Dubai flight has been in high demand, particularly among the city’s thriving diamond industry. Dubai serves as the world’s largest diamond trading center, and many diamond merchants from Surat and Mumbai have offices in the Dubai Multi Commodity Exchange (DMCC).

The WWWAS group played a crucial role in securing the necessary slots for the Surat-Dubai route. “We began working with Air India Express to obtain the slots as early as July 2023,” explained the group representative. “We are delighted that our efforts have finally paid off.”

This new route complements the existing Surat-Sharjah flight, which has been operating successfully with an impressive 85% passenger load factor. The availability of both Dubai and Sharjah destinations will offer greater convenience and flexibility to travelers from Surat.

The diamantaire community has expressed its elation at the prospect of direct flights to Dubai. “This is a huge relief and a dream come true for the diamond industry in Surat,” said a leading diamond merchant. “The direct link will significantly reduce travel time and costs, making our business operations much more efficient.”

The commencement of Air India Express’s Dubai operations marks a new chapter in Surat’s connectivity and economic growth. It will undoubtedly contribute to further development in the city’s business landscape and tourism industry.