Like previous years, 2026 will see airlines launching new routes and reshuffling their existing flights in the US-India corridor. 2025 had a great lineup of new flight services from USA to India, with strong anticipations for Air India’s nonstop connectivity to Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Atlanta. Air India’s direct network expansion is not happening in the US anytime soon, whereas Cathay Pacific and British Airways are making a comeback to Seattle and Dallas DFW respectively in 2026. St. Louis in Missouri, and Charlotte, NC will get new one-stop flights to India in the New Year.

Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking partner of Indians in America, brings you the updated list of new routes and flights coming up between USA and India in 2025. Some are connecting, while some are nonstop.

Cathay Pacific

Of the airlines opening new routes between USA and India in 2026 is Cathay Pacific. Seattle Tacoma Airport is all set to welcome back Cathay Pacific Airways after 6 years of its last flight to Seattle in 2020. Cathay Pacific’s five weekly service to and from Seattle is scheduled to take off on 30 March in 2026. Indians in the West Coast will get another route option to fly from Seattle to India via Hong Kong.

IndianEagle.com offers the best flight deals of Cathay Pacific and other airlines operating from Seattle and other US cities to India. Seattle will be its 7^th US gateway after Boston, New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas, Texas. In 2025, the flag carrier of Hong Kong added Dallas DFW and Hyderabad RGI airports to its network. Cathay Pacific is known for offering cozy seating, quality customer service, and outstanding inflight dining in all travel classes.

Etihad Airways

A new route a year keeps Etihad Airways growing in the US-India travel market. After having successfully connected Boston and Atlanta to India in 2024 and 2025 respectively, Etihad is all set for Charlotte, NC with four weekly flights starting 23 March 2026. North Carolina Indians will get to travel on Etihad flights to India from Charlotte other than Lufthansa operating from RDU Airport. Precisely, Etihad is the first Middle East carrier to expand to North Carolina, USA.

“Flying with Etihad Airways has certain perks, including Abu Dhabi stopover programs. We have the best Abu Dhabi stopover packages with discounts for Indians and Americans. The best Indian Eagle deals for Etihad flights and Abu Dhabi stopover are available over phone calls to +1800-615-3969. One of the 10 safest carriers in the world, Etihad is a family-friendly airline with inflight nanny service and trained nurses for guests,” said Dheeraj Dhuvvuru, CEO of IndianEagle.com.

British Airways

St. Louis, Missouri is one of the new flight routes coming up between USA and India in 2026. From 19 April, British Airways will be flying to St. Louis International Airport four times a week and connect its flights from St. Louis to India via London Heathrow. This route will be operated by B787 Dreamliner known for fuel efficiency, comfort, and sleek cabin design. The aircraft has three cabin classes: World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and Club World (business class).

Currently, most airlines have two-stop itineraries from St. Louis to India, except United and American Airlines. Flying with United or American Airlines means checking in only one bag for free – a disadvantage for family travellers. However, British Airways’ upcoming service will provide Indians in Missouri with smooth one-stop flights to Delhi and Mumbai and generous checked baggage allowance. Book British Airways tickets at affordable prices through IndianEagle.com.

Air Canada’s new destinations in USA

As part of the US network expansion, Air Canada will connect Raleigh, Nashville, and Tampa in the southeast US to its hub, Vancouver in 2025. Raleigh and Nashville are part of the airline’s summer 2025 schedule, whereas Tampa will be a year-round destination. Air Canada will operate to Raleigh RDU Airport from 4 June to 30 September 2025, and Nashville BNA Airport from 01 May to 30 October 2025. Tampa, Florida will join the network of Air Canada on June 3.

Vancouver-New Delhi is the only route to India that Air Canada serves with nonstop flights round the year. Precisely, Vancouver where there is US immigration and customs pre-clearance facility available will be a transit hub for Air Canada flights from RDU to New Delhi, Nashville to India, and Tampa to Delhi, India. Indians of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Tampa Bay will get to travel another route to and from Delhi via Vancouver.

Turkish Airlines’ potential new routes from USA to India 

The US-India network expansion via Istanbul is one of the goals for Turkish Airlines in 2025. After having touched down at Detroit, Michigan; and Denver, Colorado, Turkish Airlines is looking to further penetrate the heartland of America with its expansion plans focused on Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Phoenix (Arizona), Orlando (Florida), Las Vegas/Raleigh and Charlotte, NC. Philadelphia, Charlotte, Phoenix, and Minneapolis have mostly two-stop flights to India. The efforts to get these US cities on its network may progressively result in more one-stop USA to India flights by our partner, Turkish Airlines.

At the same time, Türkiye’s national airline is looking to serve Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai directly beyond its two gateways – New Delhi and Mumbai – in India. Currently, travelers from the US and Istanbul connect on codeshare flights with IndiGo to the cities, which are still unserved by Turkish Airlines. Check out Turkish Airlines’ best flight deals at IndianEagle.com, and free Istanbul City tours for international transit passengers.

Air India’s new routes from USA to India

Several US cities housing Indian immigrants in growing numbers, like Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Seattle, Boston, Detroit, and Los Angeles had been anticipating nonstop flights to India for years. This list has been narrowed down to two US destinations – Dallas-Fort Worth and Los Angeles – for Air India. The Indian civil aviation regulatory bodies, including DGCA, have already given Air India a green signal to start nonstop flights to India from Los Angeles and Dallas, Texas. The likelihood of having these two US cities in Air India’s summer 2025 schedule is high.

Also Check: Why US Visa Holders Should Keep Their Boarding Passes Safe

Subscribe to Travel Beats, a leading US-India travel news portal for Indians in America, for everything from transit visa to travel hacks, baggage allowance, connecting airport stopover guides, and upcoming flights to India. Travel Beats is a subsidiary of Indian Eagle, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of NRIs and OCI cardholders booking best international flights to India and USA.

The post Full List of New Routes, Flights, Increased Frequency that could Impact Your Travel between US and India in 2025 first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post Full List of New Routes, Flights, Increased Frequency that could Impact Your Travel between US and India in 2025 appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

International airport terminals are very happening places with vibrant retail areas. Airports across the US look merrier and livelier with glittering Christmas trees, festive lights, bustling passengers, and frequent aircraft movement during the winter holiday period. How is it if you get to spend some more time with your departing family inside the terminal and accompany them to the boarding gate amid the “happy holidays” vibes? Isn’t it interesting?

A handful of US airports allow non-travelers to enter the terminal, go past TSA security and access the area that is usually reserved for passengers with boarding passes. Just before major airlines’ Black Friday flight sale became public on the eve of Thanksgiving Day 2025, San Diego International Airport launched the SAN Pass – a visitor pass program for non-ticketed visitors. With a SAN Pass, you can see off your family from the boarding gate, greet your visiting parents in the arrivals area, and hang out in the retail area of San Diego Airport.

How to apply for San Diego Airport’s visitor pass 

Applying for San Diego International Airport’s new visitor pass is as easy as that for Seattle Tacoma Airport’s visitor pass. Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtain the SAN Pass online. Currently, the visitor pass is not available offline.

• Apply online through SAN Airport’s official website. You can do it up to 7 days in advance or jus the day before your family’s travel is scheduled.
• Fill in your full legal name, date of birth, and gender matching your TSA ID.
• TSA reviews your application. If you apply in advance, you’ll typically get an approval email just after midnight on your day of visit. For same‑day applications, the response may come in about 15 minutes.
• Once approved, San Diego Airport sends you a PDF pass via email, which you must save on your mobile device (printed copies are not accepted).
• At the airport, go to the general screening line in Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, present the SAN Pass saved on your phone, along with a TSA‑approved ID, and go through standard security screening.

Who can apply for SAN Airport visitor pass?

The SAN Pass is available for non-ticketed individuals with a valid TSA-approved photo ID. You must be 18 years or older to apply for the visitor pass to San Diego Airport. Minors are allowed if accompanied by an adult with the SAN Pass. One adult can take up to three children along with him or her on one SAN visitor pass. For minors under 18, a government-issued photo ID is not required. This program is especially helpful for those who want to spend a few extra hours with their family and loved ones take flights from San Diego to India or any other destination.

Is San Diego Airport’s pass for visitors free?

Yes, the SAN visitor Pass is completely free for all eligible non-travelers. There is no application fee. The pass is valid for the day of its issuance.

What other California airports have visitor pass program?

• Ontario International Airport: ONT Visitor Pass
• Palm Springs International Airport: PSP Visitor Pass
• John Wayne International Airport: OC AirPass

TSA Security and San Diego Airport rules for visitor pass

• SAN Pass holders go through regular TSA security screening, just like passengers.
• PreCheck, CLEAR, or expedited lanes are not available.
• You must follow all TSA rules regarding prohibited items.
• The pass is completely free, but there is a cap on the number of passes issued daily.
• Passes are given on a first‑come, first‑served basis, subject to TSA approval.
• Misuse of the pass, such as trying to bypass the airport’s official visitor badge program, can result in revocation and a loss of future privileges.
• The program may be adjusted, suspended, or cancelled depending on airport operations or security requirements.

Subscribe to Travel Beats, a leading overseas Indian community portal for airline news, travel tips, airport guides, and visa updates. Travel Beats is a subsidiary of Indian Eagle, your trusted air-ticketing partner for USA to India travel discount and flight deals. You can call +1-800-615-3969 to get phone-only budget deals from our airline partners.

The post San Diego Airport Launches Visitor Pass; Now You can Go Past TSA Security to See Off Your Family first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post San Diego Airport Launches Visitor Pass; Now You can Go Past TSA Security to See Off Your Family appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

On the occasion of Thanksgiving 2025, your trusted travel-booking partner – Indian Eagle – is back with bigger savings on flight tickets to India for you. You can grab major airlines’ Black Friday and Cyber Monday flight deals with a flat $25 discount directly at Indian Eagle headquartered in Austin, Texas. IETHANKSGIVINGTB is the Indian Eagle Thanksgiving discount coupon for you.

Eagle Deals + $25 OFF = Bigger Savings

Unlike usual festive offers, Indian Eagle’s Thanksgiving 2025 discount is simply irresistible, because you can save an additional $25 on “Eagle Deals” this time. Available only on Indian Eagle website, Eagle Deals are exclusive US-India itineraries with discounted fares cheaper than regular airline prices. An Eagle Deal + $25 OFF will unlock bigger savings for your travel to India this winter or anytime in 2026.

Thanksgiving Discount Code for Black Friday Flight Deals at Indian Eagle

IETHANKSGIVINGTB – is the discount coupon code for cheap flight tickets from USA to India. Since the offer is open to all, you can share the code with your friends and neighbours in USA as a thanksgiving gift. Why not let them fly cheaper? After all, sharing is caring! Please note you can redeem the coupon when booking your travel directly at Indian Eagle.

Validity: The Indian Eagle Thanksgiving Discount is valid from 00:01 CST on November 27 up to 23:59 CST on December 1, 2025.

Travel in 2026: You can use the IETHANKSGIVINGTB coupon to unlock savings now and fly anytime in 2026. This limit-time discount offer is suitable for early travel planners.

Last-minute travel: You can avail the discount on select itineraries for last-minute travel to India if you have not yet planned your winter holiday trip in 2025.

One-way or round-trip: The Indian Eagle $25 discount is valid for both one-way and round-trip flight booking.

How to book Indian Eagle Deals with $25 Discount 

It is just a matter of few simple steps! Log on to Indian Eagle Flights, search for itineraries based on your route and travel dates, select the “Eagle Deal” of your choice, fill traveller details, apply the discount code (IETHANKSGIVINGTB), get the discount instantly, make payment, and receive e-tickets to your registered email ID. It’s that simple!

Can I grab Indian Eagle’s Thanksgiving $25 discount on Black Friday flight deals?

Yes, you can. Major airlines’ Black Friday 2025 sale is live at Indian Eagle. The airlines offering Black Friday flight deals from USA to India are listed below. You can grab the discount on Eagle Deals and other select itineraries during the Black Friday 2025 sale period, except cashback itineraries.

Air India’s Black Friday Deals 

Among our airline partners, Air India’s Black Friday discounts on USA-India flights cover a broad period of travel from 15 January to 31 October, including summer holiday travel in 2026. Available through 3 December 2025, Air India is selling business class seats at a discount of 7-10% and offering Economy class tickets discounted up to 20% through IndianEagle.com, depending on your origin in the US and destination in India. 

For instance, Air India’s Black Friday sale 2025 makes SFO to Mumbai flight deals as cheap as $678 for a round trip from July to August 2026. At IndianEagle.com, you can grab Air India fares starting at only $630 for SFO to Bengaluru round trip in Economy during the same travel period, if you grab the Black Friday offer before 3 DEC 2025. Similar discounted fares for Air India tickets from JFK to DEL and Mumbai, Newark to DEL and Mumbai, SFO to DEL, and ORD to DEL are also available as phone-only deals over Indian Eagle’s customer helpline – +1800-615-3969.

Singapore Airlines’ Black Friday Offer 2025 

Singapore Airlines’ Black Friday flight deals from USA to India will be available through its partner – Indian Eagle – for a week starting 26 November until 2 December. The limited-time discount offer will let you fly on a premium carrier like Singapore Airlines for fares lower than usual, between 15 January and 30 October 2026. For instance, Singapore Airlines’ Black Friday sale includes cheap SFO-BLR flight tickets starting as low as $647 at IndianEagle.com, in March and April 2026.

• Black Friday Sale period: 26 NOV to 2DEC 2025
• Travel Period: 15 January to 30 October 2026 (for Economy and Premium Economy)
• Travel Period: 16 July to 30 October 2026 (for Business Class)

Qatar Airways’ Black Friday Flight Deals     

You can access Qatar Airways’ Black Friday special fares for US-India travel at IndianEagle.com, starting 24 November. Available through 30 NOV 2025, the limited-time offer unlocks an exclusive discount up to 20% on flights from Dallas to Hyderabad, Seattle to Bengaluru, Atlanta to Mumbai, Chicago to Kolkata, Boston to Chennai, and DC IAD to Delhi. The Black Friday 2025 sale, along with Indian Eagle discount $25, is the right opportunity for you to save BIG while flying with Qatar Airways, the world’s best airline according to the 2025 Skytrax Awards.

• Sale Period: 24 NOV to 30 NOV 2025
• Travel Period: 26 NOV 2025 to 30 June 2026

Ethiopian Airlines’ Black Friday Deals 

Among the airlines offering Black Friday flight discounts, Ethiopian Airlines is giving 15% OFF on flight tickets from JFK to Delhi and Mumbai. During this period, Ethiopian Airlines’ Atlanta to Mumbai tickets are available at only $735 for a round trip from 5 DEC 2025 to 2 March 2026. Check out our customers’ travel experience with Ethiopian Airlines.

• Sale Period: Until 6 DEC 2025
• Travel Period: 28 NOV-14 DEC 2025; 16 JAN-19 MAR 2026; 16 APR-31 MAY 2026

Etihad Airways’ Black Friday Sale 2025

Etihad Airways’ Black Friday deals are live at IndianEagle.com for cheap international travel from January to July 2026. Don’t miss the opportunity for incredible savings on US to India round trips with an additional ‘Indian Eagle discount’ of $25 on select deals. Etihad Airways’ Black Friday offers (available until 2 DEC 2025) include:

• Charlotte to India cheap flight tickets within USD 800 for a round trip
• Atlanta to New Delhi and Mumbai fares as low as $702 for a round trip
• Atlanta to Bengaluru, Kochi, and Kozhikode fare deals under $800
• Boston to Chennai flight tickets within $750 for a round trip in Economy
• New York to Kolkata cheapest flights for a round trip under $700
• New York to India flight deals within $800 for a round trip in Economy
• Washington DC to India budget flights within $750 for HYD, DEL, BLR, BOM
• Black Friday flight deals from Chicago to Delhi, Mumbai, HYD and BLR under $750

The post Grab Airlines’ Black Friday Flight Deals from USA to India with Extra $25 OFF from Indian Eagle first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post Grab Airlines’ Black Friday Flight Deals from USA to India with Extra $25 OFF from Indian Eagle appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

If you are a foodie, you must fly with Air India. After a long wait, you will get to binge-eat at 35,000 feet – some of the familiar dishes cooked in Indian kitchens and popular as street food across India. Mysore Masala Dosa, Podi Idli with Sambar,  Upma, Besan Chilla, North Indian Poori with Sabji, Chicken Tikka, Malabar Chicken Curry, Palak Kofta, Masala Khichdi, Masala Tea…and a lot more with international blends have found space in Air India’s new menu for international flights. I must say Air India is all set to pamper your taste buds and care for your wellness this holiday travel season.

Air India is progressively rolling out its new menu in all cabins across it global network, including India to USA, London, Australia and other destinations. The launch timing could not better than now, as the winter holiday season is peaking up and the competition is heating up between airlines. Recently, Qatar Airways roped in celebrity chef Garima Arora to design an Ayurveda-inspired vegetarian menu for flights to India. In mid-2025, Singapore Airlines introduced traditional Indian thalis for premium guests. Evidently, quality inflight food is more than a luxury these days.

What’s in new menu for Air India flights from USA to India?

You should ask what’s not there in the new inflight menu designed by Chef Sandeep Kalra. With signature dishes from Delhi’s street food, Lucknow’s Awadhi cuisine, South India’s breakfast platter, and north Indian households, Air India’s new menu mirrors the diverse culinary fabric of India.

While the South Indian platter is common to all routes and all travel classes, passengers are treated to traditional stuffed paratha, fruit yogurt, kale spinach kiwi smoothie, and Turkish eggs in breakfast on business class flights from New Delhi to USA and other countries. The new menu features smoked chicken avocado salad, Murgh Mussallam, Awadhi Paneer Anjeer Pasand, Masala Dal Khichdi, and Shahi Moong Dal Halwa in the main course for business class flyers on all nonstop Air India flights from India to USA, Canada, Dubai, London, and Australia.

Regardless of Air India fare types – Value and Classic, economy class flyers can savour home-style Indian comfort food in both veg and non-veg segments of the new menu. Kadhai Chicken, Jeera Pulao, Amritsari Dal, Rajasthani Kadhi Pakodi, Jeera Rice, and Gobi Mutter ki Sabji will give you a fulfilling sense of warmth and cosiness aboard Air India flights from Mumbai to San Francisco, New York, London, Sydney, and Singapore. You can choose to have South Indian breakfast or a north Indian platter of poori and kale chane rasedar with sooji halwa in Economy Class and Premium Economy.

Who is Chef Sandeep Kalra, the maker of Air India’s new menu?

After having worked with Bollywood’s favourite designer Manish Malhotra for the cabin crew’s brand new look, Air India roped in Sandeep Kalra as corporate chef to elevate inflight dining experience. Chef Sandeep Kalra, Director of Culinary at Accor, has added several feathers in his cap over two decades of culinary innovation while holding high-profile positions, from The Ritz-Carlton to Hotel Trident. Known for creating magic for diverse palates, Chef Kalra’s ‘new Air India menu’ for overseas Indians and foreign citizens of Indian origin is reflective of their love for homemade food, their nostalgia for childhood days’ street food, their sweet tooth for traditional Indian desserts, and their cravings for international fares.

Air India is now offering 18 special meal types  

Air India has also started offering 18 special meal types, including vegan, on select international routes, with other routes to have the same in phases. With Air India adding a vegan meal to inflight dining, Emirates Airlines is no longer the only carrier to serve vegan food on board. While or after booking Indian Eagle deals for Air India flights, you can select a meal according to your lifestyle and dietary preference. You can not only pre-select a meal of your choice, but also pass on your allergen information and preferred customization through our customer support helpline or your user account on IndianEagle.com.

The post No More Homesickness on Air India Flights: New Menu Features Comfort Food from Indian Kitchens first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post No More Homesickness on Air India Flights: New Menu Features Comfort Food from Indian Kitchens appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Videos and reports of travellers stranded for hours at Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport early this week, due to the staffing shortage amid the ongoing US government shutdown, urged caution among those scheduled to take flights this weekend or the next week. As the shutdown continues through its 38th day from 1 October, the airport staffing crisis deepens only to cause travel disruptions over flight delays and cancellations this holiday season. 

Adding fuel to the fire is DOT Secretary Sean Duffy’s warning that if the government shutdown does not end, 40 major US airports would see a 10% cut in flight operations starting 7 November. The unprecedentedly longest shutdown in the history of America has sent airlines into a tizzy over last-minute preparedness for a 10% reduction in flights to and from 40 airports nationwide, including 30 high-traffic airports. Below is the list of US airports, including the busiest hub airports, impacted by DOT’s decision to cut thousands of flights as long as the government shutdown goes on: 

Major US Airports to get flights cut amid the government shutdown 

• Boston Logan International (BOS)
• Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International, ATL 
• Dallas Fort-Worth International, DFW
• Charlotte Douglas International, CLT
• Washington Dulles International, IAD
• Denver International, DEN
• Newark Liberty International, EWR
• New York JFK International, JFK  
• George Bush Houston Intercontinental 
• Los Angeles International, LAX
• San Francisco International, SFO
• Chicago O’Hare International, ORD
• Memphis International, MEM
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International, PHX
• Seattle/Tacoma International, SEA
• Philadelphia International, PHL
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne Country, DTW
• Indianapolis International, IND
• Baltimore/Washington International, BWI
• San Diego International (SAN)
• Minneapolis/St Paul International, MSP
• Miami International, MIA

Does FAA’s flights cut order for 40 airports affect international flights? 

International flights to and from USA are less likely to be impacted. United, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Alaska have asserted that their scheduled international operations are not under the radar of the 10% flight reductions – which aims to reduce the workload on the understaffed air traffic control teams. United Airlines assures that its not cancelling any of its hub-to-hub flights within the US. Chicago, Houston, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington DC, and Newark NJ are United hubs in the US.

US Airport Travel Tips amid the Government Shutdown

Stay Alert and Show up Early at Airport 

Keep an eye on your phone and the email inbox for notifications from the airline or your travel agency. Do also keep your booking PNR handy to check flight confirmation online or with the airline directly. If your scheduled departure is not affected by the FAA’s planned 10% cut in flights, show up early at the airport to avoid missing the flight. Minimum 4 hours of buffer time for airport check-in and TSA security clearance is recommended given the airport staffing crisis induced by the government shutdown. FYI, some major US airports are sharing real-time updates on wait times through their websites and mobile apps. 

Avoid a tight connection in your itinerary

If your itinerary has a tight connection at a major US airport, rethink it given the current slowdown in the airport procedure. Rather, rebook an itinerary with a relaxed domestic to international or international to domestic connection in the US. For instance, if the Phoenix to Los Angeles/San Francisco leg of your itinerary has a tight connection, consider taking a road trip to LAX or SFO Airport from Phoenix. Don’t forget to keep the airline informed to avoid being marked ‘No-Show’ at Phoenix Airport.  

Travel light with fewer bags 

You may have got many dresses to pack in for an event in India, gifts for friends, etc. But Traveling with too many bags will amplify inconvenience for you given long queues and limited staffing at TSA checkpoints amid the government shutdown mayhem. If you are traveling with kids and/or elderly family members this holiday season, it is wise to pack in only necessary things complying with the TSA guidelines for liquids and restricted items. At the same time, don’t overlook airline-specific restrictions for power banks and electronic items on board. 

Buy only refundable flight tickets       

“If you have not yet booked your winter holiday trip for some or the other reason, make sure to buy last-minute flight tickets with refundable fares. What if the FAA order for flights cut affects your trip from any of the 40 US airports affected by the government shutdown. We have the best affordable phone-only deals for last-minute flights to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and the UAE. The offline fare deals from our airline partners are just a call away at +1800-615-3969,” said the chief customer support officer of IndianEagle.com.

Compassion and Cooperation are the key

Don’t forget that the airport staff and TSA agents have been working unpaid for more than 30 days due to the US government shutdown. Compassion for and cooperation with them will let you navigate through the airport situation that may go further downhill in the coming days. It would be great of you to reduce their workload by following the guidelines, like carrying valid travel documents, adhering to the permissible checked baggage allowance, avoiding chunky jewellery and belts with large metal buckles.

The post FAA Orders Flights Cut at 40 US Airports; Know How to Secure Your Travel amid Government Shutdown first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post FAA Orders Flights Cut at 40 US Airports; Know How to Secure Your Travel amid Government Shutdown appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Indians abroad will soon be able to book flight tickets from India to USA, Canada, Europe, and other countries for their parents or family in INR without worrying about airlines’ hefty cancellation fees. India’s civil aviation regulator, DGCA, has proposed airlines to consider a 48-hour window for free flight ticket cancellations – just like the free 24-hour booking cancellation rule in the United States. Free rescheduling of a flight reservation within 48 hours of booking has also been proposed.

What is the new 48-hour free flight cancellation rule in India

DGCA’s proposal for free flight cancellation and amendment within 48 hours of booking is a thoughtful move to recognize travelers’ rights in India. Many travelers end up paying the airline fee in thousands of rupees for cancelling refundable bookings or losing the entire value of non-refundable airline tickets due to unprecedented events, like medical emergency or death-like exigency in the family. This is part of DGCA’s broader plans to make air travel more transparent and accessible, including the latest guidelines for wheelchair service at Indian airports.

Key details of DGCA’s proposal for free flight cancellation  

• The free 48-hour window would cover both domestic airlines and international airline tickets for flights originating in India.
• Domestic flights scheduled to take off after 5 days from the date of booking would be eligible for free cancellation and rescheduling in India.
• International travel scheduled within 15 days from the booking date won’t be eligible for free cancellation or rescheduling within 48 hours of booking.
• The free 48-hour window would let you reschedule your travel for new dates or upgrade your tickets from Economy to a premium class without the airline fee, but fair difference may apply.
• Airlines may issue a refund or credit the value of tickets in the form of a voucher in case you cancel a confirmed flight booking on grounds of a medical emergency.

DGCA proposed free name corrections in flight tickets

DGCA also proposed a 24-hour window for free name corrections in domestic and international flight tickets. Once the proposal becomes a provision, you would be able to correct spelling errors in your name within 24 hours of booking a flight in or from India, without paying any fee to airlines. Misspellings of travelers’ names are not uncommon during a flight sale period when cheap airline deals are booked at a hurried pace. Of course, free or paid correction of name spellings is subject to your identity verification by airlines.

Also Check: A Guide on Major Airlines’ Policy for Passenger Name Correction 

FAQs:

When will DGCA’s 48-hour free cancellation rule be effective?

The proposed rule is under consideration now. It is anticipated to take effect on or after 30 November 2025.

Will the 48-hour free flight cancellation rule apply to US-India itineraries?

Most probably, no. India’s free flight ticket cancellation within 48 hours of booking would apply to itineraries, one way or round trip, originating in India.

The post Booking India to USA Flights? DGCA Proposes 48hr Free Ticket Cancellation and 24hr Free Name Correction first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post Booking India to USA Flights? DGCA Proposes 48hr Free Ticket Cancellation and 24hr Free Name Correction appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

A spate of complaints about non-availability of pre-booked wheelchair service at major Indian airports propelled the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to amend “special service” norms for airlines. As part of the revised wheelchair rules, DGCA – a leading Indian civil aviation regulator – now allows airlines to leavy a fee for wheelchair bookings by able-bodied passengers and senior travelers in good health. At the same time, DGCA made it clear that airlines must continue to provide wheelchair assistance as a free service to those who genuinely need it at airports.

DGCA also directed the airlines to display the above on their websites. However, there is yet no clarity on how airlines would identify whether a passenger genuinely needs free wheelchair service and how much fee will be levied on non-genuine wheelchair bookings. A draft on the revision was issued in August 2025 after the civil aviation watchdogs, including DGCA, were taken aback by facts about the misuse of free wheelchair service – a key facility for those with physical debility, limited mobility, or some medical condition.

An 82-year-old woman, among the passengers of Air India, suffered a fall while walking with difficulty due to wheelchair shortage at New Delhi Airport on that given day in March 2025. It led DGCA to probe why the available number of wheelchairs did not suffice to fulfil daily requests at airports. The investigation revealed the overbooking and misuse of free wheelchair assistance by able-bodied passengers in their 40s or 50s. It leaves senior citizens with limited mobility deprived of the service at busy Indian airports.

It is undeniable that having wheelchair support (for free) is the easiest way to skip long queues, from security to immigration, at the busiest airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad, as wheelchair-bound passengers get priority service for baggage check-in and boarding. Besides, non-Hindi and non-English speaking passengers depend on wheelchair staff to navigate the crowded terminals of Mumbai and Delhi international airports where wayfinding signages and information displays are only in Hindi and English.

New DGCA Guidelines for Wheelchair Assistance at Airports 

“To facilitate the timely provision of special assistance, passengers who have pre-booked wheelchairs shall report to the airport sufficiently in advance of their scheduled boarding time. Considering airport-specific constraints such as terminal layout, security procedures, and resource availability, airlines may prescribe a minimum reporting time to facilitate hassle-free assistance,” the DGCA circular to airlines states.  

While providing wheelchairs to passengers for free or a fee is airlines’ primary responsibility, airport operators are not exempt to it, according to DGCA’s new rules for special service at airports. If airlines fall short of fulfilling wheelchair requests during a busy travel season, airport operators must have a provision of supplementary wheelchairs to help airlines render special assistance to travelers with genuine needs.

A number of wheelchair requests come from travelers booking flights from India to USA, Canada, the UK, Singapore, Australia and other countries, as many Indians fly overseas to get medical care or visit their children residing there. DGCA’s new guidelines for airlines to charge able-bodied travelers for wheelchair service will impact passengers of Air India flights and IndiGo’s codeshare flights with Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, American Airlines, and Air France-KLM.

The post DGCA Allows Air India, IndiGo and Other Airlines to Charge for Wheelchair Requests, Aiming to Curb Misuse of the Free Service first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

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“Wrong terminal” is one of the reasons for travelers to miss their flights, domestic or international. The right terminal information, among others, helps avoid missing flights especially during short connections. If you are scheduled to fly with Air India to or from New Delhi Airport on or after 26 October 2025, you need to be aware of the right terminal for hassle-free domestic to international and international to domestic connections.

At New Delhi IGI Airport, Terminal 2 is reopening on 26 October after months of renovation, and Terminal 3 is scheduled to undergo expansion for enhanced international traffic capacity. Accordingly, Air India is reshuffling its domestic operations between T3, T2, and T1. On 26 October, Air India is shifting 60 of its domestic flights from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2, and its subsidiary – Air India Express will be having all its domestic operations from Terminal 1. This means travelers flying into or out of New Delhi must have the right terminal information.

How to Check Delhi Airport Terminal for Air India Flights

For passengers of Air India flights to New Delhi from USA or other countries with domestic connections, here is a simple 4-digit trick to identify the right terminal for their connecting domestic flights. If the domestic flight number in your itinerary is a 4-digit number starting with “1” (for example, AI12340), it means you must transit to T2 from T3 for the domestic connection. Air India’s domestic flights that still have three digits (like AI302) will continue to operate from the international Terminal 3. If the domestic flight number begins with XI, you need to transfer to Terminal 1 after international arrival.

“If the domestic to international connection for your outbound flight requires you to transfer from T1 to T3 at Delhi Airport, you need to select from Air India itineraries with significant transit time given the distance between T1 and T3 (around 8 km). Hence, checking the Air India flight number (4-digit or 3 digit) for the domestic leg in itineraries is recommended for your convenience,” said the chief ticketing officer of IndianEagle.com, the most trusted source of cheap airline tickets to India.

How to Transfer between Terminals at Delhi IGI Airport

When your international flight lands at T3, you go through arrival formalities including immigration, checked baggage claim, and customs clearance. Once you are done, you head to the terminal for your connecting domestic flight, irrespective of airline.

T3 to T2: At Delhi Airport, T3 to T2 distance is not more than 500 meters. You can either walk (about 10–15 minutes) or take the free shuttle bus that runs every 10 minutes. The shuttle is well-marked and easy to find near the arrival area.

T3 to T1: T1 is farther from T3 at DEL Airport and cannot be reached on foot. You can use the free inter-terminal shuttle service that operates around the clock between T1, T2, and T3. Alternatively, prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are available outside Terminal 3 if you prefer a direct ride.

Air India automatically transfers checked bags from Terminal 3 to T2 and T1 without requiring you to claim and recheck in your bags, If the entire itinerary has a single PNR. If the international leg and the domestic leg in the itinerary have different PNRs, you need to collect your checked bags at T3 and recheck in at T2 or T1.

Helpful Facilities at Delhi Airport for Transit Passengers

Delhi International Airport provides dedicated assistance desks at all terminals to help passengers with transfers. Look for counters of connecting Air India Flights customs clearance at T3. The ground staff can confirm your domestic terminal, guide you to the shuttle area, and help if your next flight departs soon. There is also buggy service for passengers with mobility needs, luggage trolleys, and free Wi-Fi in all terminals. There are food courts, rest areas, and lounges if you have a long layover. Navigating Delhi Airport during terminal transfer is easy once you know where to go. The airport staff are helpful when it comes to guiding transit passengers.

The post Air India is Changing Terminals at Delhi Airport: All You Should Know for Smooth Connection first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

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The US aviation is on the cusp of evolution with multibillion-dollar airport projects for new world-class terminals, large-scale modernization, and capacity expansion. With significant overhauls to better infrastructure, technology, amenities, and security systems for departures, arrivals, and connections, 8 major US airports defy aging. A collective public-private investment of over $40 billions is making these American airports future-ready travel hubs with more widebody-aircraft handling capacity, energy efficiency, accessibility for differently-abled passengers, and likes.

A walk through 9 major US airport upgrade projects: DFW, JFK, BOS, ORD, SFO, ATL, PIT

Dallas DFW Airport Terminal F

DFW Terminal F is a major upcoming US airport expansion that will fast-tracks capacity for American Airlines and strengthen Dallas as a global gateway. It brings industry-first prefabricated megastructure modules, a new Skylink station, and widebody-capable gates. Travelers will notice faster connections, shorter walks between gates, improved baggage flow, and larger retail and lounge spaces, all useful when flying long-haul flights to India from Dallas.

• Budget: Phase 1 Around $1.6 billion; overall $4 billion
• Terminal size: Phase 1 Approx. 400,000 sq ft
• Gates: 15 gates in Phase 1; overall 31 gates
• Timeline: Phase 1 expected to open with 15 gates in 2027
• Features: New Skylink station, improved baggage and security flow, more widebody-capable gates for international routes.

New York JFK Airport Terminal One

Among the new billion-dollar terminals in the US, JFK Airport Terminal One is highly anticipated to be the largest airport terminal in the east coast. It will define how you fly to and from New York. Its contemporary architecture will let ample natural flight in through floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Travelers will experience faster security screening, improved customs processing, advanced baggage-handling system, and a unique retail and dining mix – all designed to make long-haul operations, including flights from JFK airport to India, smoother and more enjoyable. Qatar Airways, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, Air India, and several other international carriers are expected to move their operations to New Terminal One once it opens.

• Budget: Around $9.5 billion; part of a $19 billion JFK redevelopment
• Terminal size: Approx. 2.4–2.6 million sq ft total
• Gates: About 23 gates planned in Phase 1
• Amenities: 300,000+ sq ft of retail, dining, and lounges
• Timeline: Phased openings begin in 2026; full build-out through 2030

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport Expansion

Among the US airports getting major renovations, Atlanta ATL Airport is upgrading for the future through its massive ATLNext modernization program, one of the largest in US aviation. A key highlight is the Concourse D expansion, built with modular construction to minimize disruption while adding much-needed space for passengers. Alongside this, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport is renovating its main terminal interiors with better lighting, higher ceilings, and wider walkways to elevate comfort for millions of travelers, including for long-haul flights from Atlanta to India and other global destinations.

• Budget: Around $1.3 billion (part of ATLNext’s $18 billion master plan)
• Size: Concourse D expansion adds about 211,000 sq ft of new space
• Timeline: Expected completion in 2027
• Gates: Around 24 gates
• Plane Train upgrade: $300 million system revamp with 63 new train cars, faster service
• Connectivity improvements: Renovated walkways and automated train stations linking terminals
• Traveler benefits: Less congestion, quicker transfers, improved comfort, and better international connections

Chicago ORD Airport Concourse D

The US airport projects for new terminals and expansions include Chicago O’Hare International Airport, where Concourse D is under construction. It is the first major addition to the terminal complex in more than three decades. Part of the ORDNext modernization program, it is designed to handle both domestic and international operations, helping ORD Airport manage its growing long-haul traffic. Concourse D will feature daylight-filled interiors, flexible gate layouts for widebody aircraft, and a suspended arrivals corridor that separates arrivals and departures.

• Budget: Approximately $1.3 billion
• Size: Around 590,000 sq ft over three levels
• Gates: 19 new gates (convertible for widebody aircraft)
• Timeline: Expected completion in 2028
• Traveler benefits: Faster transfers, improved passenger flow, and better facilities for long-haul international flights

Boston Logan Airport Terminal E

Boston Logan International Airport is upgrading Terminal E to enhance its role as a major US gateway for international travel. The expansion focuses on improving passenger experience and sustainability. The new upgraded terminal will feature a striking red prismatic roof, larger gate areas, and natural-light interiors that will simplify navigation and reduce congestion. A new multi-story parking garage for about 5000 cars will be directly linked with pedestrian and vehicle bridges to Terminals E and C, thereby improving access for departing and arriving passengers.

• Budget: Around $450 million under Massport’s NCEC Program
• Terminal size: 320,000 sq ft expansion + 70,000 sq ft renovation
• Parking structure: 725,000 sq ft multi-story garage
• Gates: 4 new gates with widebody capability
• Timeline: Construction began in 2025; completion targeted for 2028
• Passenger features: New international security checkpoint, daylight-filled interiors, improved customs and baggage systems, and local Boston-inspired retail and dining

Pittsburgh International Airport New Terminal

Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal is one of major US airport development projects. Scheduled to open in November 2025, PIT’s new terminal features advanced TSA scanners that let passengers keep laptops, liquids, and electronics in their carry-ons, speeding up security checks. The airport’s “We Got You” program offers real-time assistance to passengers with various needs. And, since the new terminal is adjacent to the concourses, PIT’s underground train will no longer be needed. Improved wayfinding at Pittsburgh Airport’s new terminal will facilitate tight connections ensuring a great deal of passenger convenience.

• Budget: Around $1.7 billion
• Terminal size: Approximately 811,000 sq ft
• Gates: Around 63 gates
• Expected opening: November 2025
• Unique design: Nature-inspired interiors, tree-branch columns, daylight-filled rooflines
• Amenities: 4 outdoor terraces, centralized security checkpoint, smart scanners, faster baggage systems, and new roadways for quicker drop-off and pickup

San Francisco SFO Airport Terminal 3 Modernization

San Francisco International Airport’s Terminal 3 West Modernization is one of the most significant US airport terminal upgrade projects currently underway. The upgrade focuses on improving passenger comfort, space, and efficiency through redesigned interiors, advanced security checkpoints, and a six-story building featuring new lounges, retail, and dining options. The upgraded SFO Terminal 3 will feature a sterile corridor connecting Terminal 3 to International Terminal G, allowing faster and easier transfers for international passengers, including of flights between San Francisco and India.

• Budget: $2.6 billion
• Terminal size: 850,000 sq ft (650,000 sq ft renovated + 200,000 sq ft new)
• Gates: 16 total gates with flexible swing gate capability
• Timeline: Completion by 2029
• Sustainability: LEED Platinum target, solar panels, energy-efficient systems
• Traveler benefits: Brighter interiors, quicker transfers, and upgraded amenities

Seattle–Tacoma International Airport’s $5bn Upgrade

Seattle–Tacoma International Airport is undergoing a $5 billion modernization and expansion program called “Upgrade SEA” to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The program includes the C Concourse Expansion and the SEA Gateway Project, both focused on improving comfort, sustainability, and passenger flow. The new C Concourse will rise four additional floors to add restaurants, lounges, and open viewing spaces, while the Gateway Project will rebuild the main terminal’s ticketing and security areas into a brighter, more efficient space.

• Investment: $5 billion modernization program under “Upgrade SEA”
• Size: About 226,530 sq ft
• Timeline: Major works completing by 2026, before the FIFA World Cup
• Sustainability: Rooftop solar panels, electric systems, biophilic interiors, energy-efficient glazing
• Security upgrades: New checkpoints and expanded screening lanes for faster processing
• Traveler benefits: Brighter spaces, smoother check-ins, modern dining options, and shorter security waits

Also Check: How you can enter SeaTac Airport terminal without boarding pass  

The post Major US Airports Getting Upgrades for Multibillion Dollars: New Terminals to Big-scale Modernization first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The post Major US Airports Getting Upgrades for Multibillion Dollars: New Terminals to Big-scale Modernization appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Starting 1 October 2025, the checklist for travel to India includes a new digital arrival form that complements India’s Fast-Track Immigration system, specifically for non-Indian passport holders. The government of India eliminated the physical disembarkation card and introduced the e-arrival card for foreign nationals and citizens, aiming to reduce delays in the airport process.

Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking agency for budget flight tickets to India, walks you through what is the new e-Arrival Card, how to apply for it, who are exempt, etc. Read on to know whether OCI Cardholders need the digital e-Arrival Card to enter India.

What is India’s e-Arrival Card  

The e-arrival disembarkation card is a token of safe entry into India for foreign passport holders. This pre-arrival process ensures post-arrival convenience, faster immigration clearance, and quick exit or transfer to the connecting domestic flight at major Indian airports. Until 1 October, inbound foreign travelers had to fill out a paper disembarkation form aboard flights to India or at entry airports. Filling the physical form manually would entail such risks as human error, misinformation, incomplete or inaccurate details, and slow processing.

Requiring foreign visitors to fill out a digital arrival form is a global trend these days. Like Thailand, Taiwan, Philippines, Singapore, Japan, China, and South Korea; India digitized the pre-arrival process to streamline and secure the immigration system for foreign travelers. You must fill out the online form before your scheduled flight to India. Without a digital disembarkation card, you may risk your entry to India or face boarding denial at the departure airport.

Who Needs e-Arrival Card to travel to India?

OCI Cardholders and all foreigners, including tourists, students, business visitors, and medical treatment seekers, must fill out the digital Disembarkation form at Indian government’s e-Arrival Card portal within 72 hours prior to their scheduled arrival in India. No, OCI cardholders are not exempt to India’s new entry requirement for foreigners. Starting 7 October 2025, Indian-origin foreign citizens having an OCI Card must travel to India with a digital arrival card.

How to Apply for India’s e-Arrival Card: Step-by-Step Guide

It is easy and simple to apply online for a disembarkation card to enter India. You neither need to upload documents nor pay a fee. It takes a few minutes to fill out India’s digital arrival form, a replacement of the physical disembarkation form.      

• Open the official website www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival or download the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile app.
• Fill out the online form with your personal details, passport number, date of arrival in India, valid contact information, address of stay in India.
• Add details of other travelers in the same form, if you are flying with family or friends.
• Review the information you provide in India’s e-arrival form for a disembarkation card before you tick the self-declaration box and submit the form.
• A confirmation message comes to the registered email ID and/or mobile phone number. Save it on your phone or carry a printout with you.

Benefits of India’s Digital Arrival Form

The e-Arrival Card brings several advantages for foreign travelers arriving in India:

• Faster immigration clearance
• Reduced wait time on arrival
• Quick exit or transfer to domestic flights
• No stress to fill out the form during a flight
• Absolute convenience to apply using a phone
• Fewer chances for inaccuracy of details
• No room for handwriting error
• Verifiable data of foreign arrivals
• More efficient process for the government to track arrivals
• Enhanced immigration security

If you’re planning your winter holiday travel to India via Dubai, this short reel is a must watch. Don’t just transit via Dubai; make it unforgettable for your family, with a budget-friendly Dubai Stopover package from Indian Eagle.

 

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The post All about India’s Digital e-Arrival Card for Foreign Visitors: A Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for It first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

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