The India-North America connection

The convenience of flying non-stop has ensured that airlines not only survived but also thrived in the India-USA and India-Canada sectors.

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Map showing current and former Air India destinations

Red: Current destinations.

Pink: Previously served countries.

Orange: India.

*Data as of July 29, 2021 Courtesy: Air India

This led to forming a concept, which was termed as "air bubble" wherein the weekly entitlements were negotiated with certain countries which were open to do business and accept Indian's and vice versa. Very soon, the United States raised a dispute calling the air bubble flights commercial flights under the disguise of an evacuation mission. This led to the first air bubble, with both American and Indian carriers being allowed to mount flights and allow citizens to travel. Germany soon joined in with a similar demand and the next air bubble was in place. Country after country tried joining in and it led to formation of 35+ air bubbles.

Even as the country grappled with a deadly second wave in April, May and June of 2020, the flights continued, albeit with restrictions with countries not allowing Indians to travel. While many European countries put restrictions and so did Canada, America-India flights continued unabated.

THE IMPORTANCE