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Air India Celebrates Historic Return to Zurich with Inaugural Flight to Delhi

Zurich: 16.06.24
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On June 16th, Air India marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its first flight, AI 152, from Zurich to Delhi. The event, held at Zurich Airport, was graced by several distinguished guests and dignitaries. The ceremony was inaugurated by His Excellency Mridul Kumar, the Indian Ambassador to Switzerland, who highlighted the pride felt by Indians in Switzerland as their flagship carrier resumed direct services between Zurich and Delhi, a route that had been dormant for 27 years.

Stefan Tschudin, COO of Zurich Airport, and Anji Undru, Regional Manager for the UK and Europe, who served as the chief guest, were also present. The welcoming address was delivered by Sachin Verma, Regional Manager, and the event was coordinated by Micun Pavicevic, Head of Air India Sales. Among the notable attendees were Shri Pavan Kapoor, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, along with representatives of the Pravasi Indian community, Mr. and Mrs. V. Edattukaran and Tomy Thondamkuzhy.

In his speech, Ambassador Kumar invited everyone to experience the renowned Maharajah class service on board, emphasizing the importance of this new connection. He noted that Air India’s return to Zurich would significantly enhance travel options for the Indian diaspora and travelers from Switzerland, providing excellent connections to major Indian airports and key destinations across Asia and beyond. This new route adds Zurich as the seventh European airport serviced by Air India, which will operate four flights per week.

Mr.Tomy Thondamkuzhy & The Indian Ambassador during the inaugural ceremony of first AI flight to Delhi, at the ZRH airport

Mr.Tomy Thondamkuzhy & The Indian Ambassador during the inaugural ceremony of first AI flight to Delhi, at the ZRH airport

The flight schedule is set for Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday evenings, departing Zurich at 20:50 and arriving in New Delhi at 08:05 the following morning. This timing facilitates smooth onward connections. The service will be operated by a Boeing 787-8, which offers a total of 256 seats, including 18 in business class.

The ceremony concluded with a warm reception for the guests, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Air India’s international service and strengthening the ties between India and Switzerland.🇨🇭