Carrier is now serving cities on several continents

Air India has built a formidable presence in both its homeland and abroad and that in turn is enabling it to build a strong customer base in this country.

The carrier, which links both Vancouver and Toronto with New Delhi, now serves more than two dozen destinations within India and numerous other points in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres, having some 1,200 domestic and international flights a day, those attending a recent Brampton, Ont., dinner paying tribute to those who book particularly large numbers of clients on the airline were told.

And an Air India official told the gathering that there has been a “sea change” in management now that a formerly government-owned carrier is now part of the private sector. “One thing we are certain of is that it’s going to be a phenomenal global airline,” the official said. Management views the importance of travel agents “very seriously,” he added.

Air Canada also carries people to India but Air India’s Canadian operation has been able to capitalize on a large Indian community in this country who appreciate Indian food and Indian in-flight entertainment being made available to them while they’re airborne, and some crew members wearing traditional Indian attire. Canadian load factors are over 80%.

Air India is adding leading-edge A350s to its fleet, although their delivery is being slowed by the manufacturer having trouble getting some business class seats. Meanwhile, the official invited people to weigh in on Air India service. “All the feedback is taken very  seriously.”

Among those on hand at the Brampton gathering was Ravi Kumar of Huntington Travel, who appreciates working with Air India. “Air India is a global airline with Indian hospitality,” he stated. “Travellers flying with Air India also enjoy the benefits of Star Alliance. Additionally, Air India’s loyalty program Maharaja Club and the app are futuristic in features and benefits. These are few of the reasons we recommend Air India to our travel advisor clients to book Air India for their customers.”

Rajiv Calpakam of Ontario agency Direct Travel noted that India-born residents of this country “feel very comfortable” travelling on an airline that has crew members who speak regional Indian languages and has a large presence in India.