India’s Union Budget 2026 revised the baggage rules for international arrivals, both Indian-origin and foreign-origin. It replaced the decade-old baggage regulations of 2016 by increasing the duty-free limit for imported goods to India from the US and other countries. Also, the customs duty relief on personal jewelry has got a little better for NRIs and OCI cardholders traveling to India in 2026. India’s new duty-free baggage allowance is effective starting 2 February, as per the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

Whom does India’s new baggage rules 2026 apply to?

The new baggage rules, 2026, including new duty-free limit, and strict customs guidelines, apply to all passengers of international flights to India from USA and other countries. It equally applies to those arriving in India by sea routes.

• Indian residents
• Tourists of Indian origin; NRIs and OCI cardholders
• Foreigners with a valid visa, other than tourist visa
• Tourists of foreign origin
• Crew members

What is the new duty-free limit for passengers to India?  

In the Union Budget 2026, the government of India raised the duty-free limit to Rs 75,000 for the arriving Indian residents, NRIs, OCI Cardholders, and foreigners holding valid non-tourist visas. Earlier, Indian Customs’ duty-free allowance was limited to Rs 50,000 on the total valuation of foreign goods imported to India for personal use. Under the bonafide baggage rules, 2026, the new duty-free limit is Rs 25,000 for foreigners (non-Indian origin) arriving in India by air or sea. Earlier, it was only Rs. 15,000.

New customs rules for bringing laptops to India

India’s new baggage rules, 2026, allow you to bring a new laptop or notebook free of customs duty in your bona fine baggage. You must be 18 years or above, and the new laptop or notebook purchased abroad must be for your personal or family use, or gifting, under Section 79 of the Customs Act, 1962. You have to pay the applicable customs duty on a second new laptop if the value exceeds the enhanced duty-free limit.

What if you carry dutiable goods to India beyond the duty-free limit?

On arrival in India, you need to pay customs duty on the amount minus the new duty-free limit of Rs 75,000, if the value of dutiable goods in your bonafide baggage exceeds the duty-free allowance.

Well, there is some good news for overseas Indians visiting the home country and resident Indians returning from an international trip. The new finance bill, under the Union Budget 2026-27, has reduced the customs duty to a flat 10% for all dutiable goods, from electronics to fashion accessories to high-end luxury items to gourmet food, that they carry for personal use or a non-commercial purpose like gifting (to a certain extent).

Effective from 1 April 2026, you will be paying only 10% as customs duty on the taxable value of imported goods, minus the duty-free limit of Rs 75,000, provided the dutiable goods are honestly declared through the Red Channel at Indian airports. Previously, taxable imports from abroad, though for personal use, attracted a basic customs duty of 20% or higher on the extra value.

“It means, starting in April 2026, the cost of bringing electronic items from USA to India for personal use or gifting will significantly drop. If you bring a new iPhone from USA to India, other than your personal one in use, you will have to pay a flat 10% customs duty on the iPhone price minus the duty-free allowance of Rs 75,000, and a social welfare surcharge at 10% of the applicable customs duty,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor at IndianEagle.com, your trusted travel-booking partner.

What foreign items don’t qualify for the flat 10% customs duty in India?  

The reduced customs duty won’t apply to alcoholic beverages, printed reading materials, tobacco products, cars, and items that require an import license.

How much gold jewelry can you bring under India’s new baggage rules 2026?

Under the new baggage rules effective 2 February 2026, India redefined duty-free jewelry allowance for Indians, both resident and overseas. The redefined jewelry allowance is purely weight-based now, irrespective of the value. Whether you are a resident Indian, or an NRI living abroad, you are entitled to carrying gold jewelry duty free to India within the following limits:

• 40 grams for Indian women and 20 grams for Indian men returning from an international trip
• 40 grams for Indian-origin women and 20 grams for Indian-origin men residing abroad for more than 1 year

This guide explaining India’s Baggage Rules for NRIs and Indian-origin foreign tourists is brought to you Indian Eagle, a leading US-based travel tech company facilitating affordable flights to from USA to India and beyond with best deals from major airlines. Call toll-free +1-800-615-3969 for phone-only exclusive fares.

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Indian Passport ranks 80th on the Henley Passport Index in 2026. It has moved up five spots higher than the ranking in 2024, enabling Indian Passport holders to visit 55 countries visa-free or with a visa on arrival in 2026. Only Iran and Bolivia have dropped from the list of countries that offer visa on arrival / visa-free entry to Indians with a valid US Visa or Green Card. Evidently, Indian Passport when backed with a valid US visa stamp or a Green Card exerts more power and influence at international levels.

Check out what countries Indians with Green Cards or US visas can visit in 2026 without applying for a visa in advance:

Visa-free Countries for Green Cardholders and US Visa holders

Singapore: 96-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Among visa-free countries for US Green Cardholders and Indians with a valid US visa, Singapore offers 96-hour visa free transit for guided city sightseeing tours. Since the Free Singapore Tour is available only for passengers of Singapore Airlines flights, many US visa holders and Green cardholders among Indians take advantage of the visa-free transit facility while traveling between USA and India through Changi Airport. The US visa stamp on your Indian passport must be valid for 30 days or more from your arrival in Singapore.

Qatar: Visa-free Doha Stopovers

Among visa-free countries for Green Cardholders and US visa holders, Qatar offers visa-free Doha stopovers to passengers of Qatar Airways flights. Qatar’s visa waiver for Indian passport holders from India and the US is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance at Doha’s Hamad International Airport, given they have a passport with minimum 6-month validity, confirmed return flight tickets, and confirmed hotel booking in Doha.

You can call Indian Eagle’s customer helpline +1800-615-3969 for phone-only budget flight deals of Qatar Airways from USA to Doha, or US to India via Doha. You can call the same number to explore Doha stopover packages and the best deals available at Indian Eagle.

Mexico: Visa-Free for 180 Days

Mexico is one of the countries that offer visa-free entry to Indians with Green Card or a valid US visa. You can stay visa-free in Mexico for up to 180 days. Cancun in Mexico is a most popular beach getaway for Indians in the United States. Just make sure your US residency permit or visa is valid at the time of entry to explore Mexico cities and beaches without any visa hassles.

Peru: Visa-Free for 180 Days

Peru is among the visa-free countries for Green Cardholders and US visa holders with Indian passports. You can stay in this South American country for up to 180 days in a calendar year. Minimum 6-month validity of your US visa is a must for visa-free entry to Peru from the time of arrival. Whether hiking to Machu Picchu or soaking in the charm of Lima is your travel goal, the US visa or Green Card makes it easier for Indians to visit Peru without a visa.

Philippines: Visa-Free for 14 Days

The Philippines offers visa-free entry to US Green Cardholders and US work visa holders among Indians. In addition to visa-free entry to Manila, you can holiday for up to 14 days. Your visa-free stay in the Philippines can be extended once for another 7 days. In certain cases, Indian passport holders don’t need a US visa to travel visa-free to Philippines, but they must present confirm return flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and financial documents.

Thailand: Visa-free Entry

Among visa-free countries for Indian passport holders, Thailand is the most welcoming destination in Asia. Irrespective of your US visa status or validity, you can visit Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. Starting May 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all inbound foreign travelers for legal entry into the country. to be filled online at least 3 days prior to your scheduled arrival in Thailand, the digital form replaced the old paper form and includes a healthy declaration too.

Bahamas: Visa-Free for 30 Days

Bahamas makes island travel easy for Indian passport holders with a valid US visa or Green Card. You don’t need a separate visa to enter, as long as your US visa is multiple-entry and has been used at least once to travel to the US. You can stay up to 30 days in the Bahamas visa-free, soaking in its beaches and clear blue waters. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of entry.

Visa-on-arrival Countries for Green Cardholders and US Visa Holders

UAE Visa-on-Arrival for Dubai and Abu Dhabi Stopovers

The United Arab Emirates tops the list of countries that offer visa on arrival to US Green Cardholders and Indians with a valid US visa. The UAE visa on arrival for eligible Indians is issued for 14 days of stay, which is extendable for additional 14 days for a nominal fee. The visa-on-arrival entry to the UAE has been expanded to Indians holding valid visas or legal residency permits from not only USA and Canada, but also Singapore, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and New Zealand. Your Indian passport and Green Card or US visa must be valid for 6 months from the date of arrival at Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indians in the US, has the best deals for Dubai Experience packages and ‘Visit Abu Dhabi’ tour packages, in addition to exclusive phone-only flight deals from Emirates and Etihad Airways. Indian Eagle’s air-ticketing and tour-planning team is available at +1800-615-3969 (24/7).

Oman: Visa-on-arrival/e-Visa for 30 days

The Oman visa on arrival for Green Card holders and eligible Indian citizens come for 30 days. Like other visa-on-arrival countries, Oman requires Indian citizens to hold a valid visa from the UK, Canada, the UK, Japan, or Schengen countries. Return flight confirmation and hotel reservation are pre-requisites for visa-on-arrival entry to Oman.

Sri Lanka: Visa on Arrival with ETA for 30 Days 

Among the visa-on-arrival countries for US Green Cardholders and Indian citizens without a US visa, Sri Lanka grants 30-day visa on arrival through an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online. It is simple and hassle-free. Sri Lanka’s visa-on-arrival requirements include your passport with 6-month validity, return or onward flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and financial support documents.

Bahrain: Visa on Arrival for 30 Days

In the Gulf region, Bahrain is on the list of countries offering visa on arrival to Indians with a US Green Card or visa. You can stay in this beautiful island country for up to 14 days on a single-entry visa or up to 30 days on a multiple-entry visa. Starting in October 2025, Gulf Air flights from New York to India make it easier for US visa holders and Green Cardholders to get Bahrain’s visa on arrival for a stopover. A 6-month valid passport, return or onward travel booking confirmation, accommodation proof and sufficient funds are mandatory.

The booking of customized tour packages in all these visa-free countries for Green Cardholders and Indians on US Visas is just a call away at Indian Eagle! Call our trusted travel advisors at +1800-615-3969 for budget-friendly stopover tour packages for family and individuals, as well as discounted phone-only flight deals.

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Since December 2024, Japan Airlines has been offering seamless connectivity beyond its two primary gateways – New Delhi and Bengaluru – through IndiGo, a leading Indian airline with the largest domestic market share. Precisely, IndiGo has been connecting Japan Airlines’ passengers to a broad domestic network from Indira Gandhi DEL and Kempegowda BLR airports as one of JAL’s strategic codeshare partners.

New Delhi and Bengaluru were the only destinations for Japan Airlines flights to India before its codeshare alliance with IndiGo. JAL, one of the best airlines with premium economy seats, operates daily flights to Delhi IGI Airport from/via Tokyo Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) airports. JAL flights to Bengaluru Kempegowda Airport from/via Narita International Airport have daily frequency. However, Japan Airlines’ connection between Narita and New Delhi is a temporary service, from 17 January to 1 March 2026.

Japan Airlines’ India network covers 18 cities through IndiGo

IndiGo facilitates domestic travel to and from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, Pune, Goa, Varanasi, Lucknow, Amritsar, Surat, Chandigarh, Aurangabad, Coimbatore, Trichy, Thiruvananthapuram, and Leh (Ladakh) for Japan Airlines’ passengers via New Delhi and Bengaluru. The JAL-IndiGo codeshare partnership enables Indians from the US network of Japan Airlines to travel seamlessly to the above-mentioned 18 Indian cities on a single ticket.

“IndiGo is the wind beneath the wings of several international carriers, like Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, British Airways, American Airlines, and Air France-KLM for their market growth in India. Not just Japan Airlines, but all these carriers continue to find IndiGo as a reliable codeshare partner for its upgraded fleet, brand-new business class cabin (IndiGo Stretch), and largely, domestic network, and on-time performance. IndiGo is flexing its revenue muscle through codeshare alliances,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor of Travel Beats.

Reportedly, IndiGo, which is primarily branded as an economy airline, is looking to reposition itself with billion-dollar plans to add premium economy and business class to its product portfolio. Thirty A350-900 planes with premium economy and business class seats, which IndiGo has recently placed an order for, will help the airline align with premium passengers of its foreign codeshare partners and their expectations.

IndiGo, which was primarily branded as an all-economy airline for nearly two decades, is repositioning itself to cash in on business class travel. In November 2024, IndiGo Stretch, a brand-new business class product with a number of complimentary services, was rolled out to compete with Air India on metro-to-metro routes and cater to premium guests of its international codeshare partners. IndiGo Stretch features wider seats in a 2-2 configuration, with greater recline, extra legroom, adjustable headrests, and power outlets. IndiGo Stretch bookings include liberal cabin baggage allowance (12kg per person) and priority check-in.

Budget flight tickets of Japan Airlines and other major carriers flying between USA and India are just a call away. Call the toll-free +1800-615-3969 to grab Indian Eagle’s phone-only deals for affordable trips from USA to India and beyond. Indian Eagle, a leading travel-booking partner of Indian Diaspora and Americans, has been booking international flights at the lowest prices for nearly 20 years.

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Aircraft shortage has been a major setback to Air India’s expansion plans, revival goals, transformation journey, and revenues since late Ratan Tata bought back the airline with its outdated fleet. Making the derelict, debt-ridden airline take off to great heights in full glory again proved to be more than a monumental task over time. Despite a multibillion-dollar order placed in February 2023 for a new wide-body fleet, global supply chain issues and geo-political tensions continued to delay new aircraft delivery, as well as retrofitting of the existing aircraft.

As they say every dark cloud has a silver lining, Air India welcomed 2026 with a brand-new B787-9 Dreamliner having arrived to New Delhi from Seattle on 11 January. The first Dreamliner, in the series of 20 Boeing 787-9s, will be inducted into long-haul passenger service in February, and 2026 will see a total of 6 new widebody deliveries including two A350-1000s, according to a media briefing from the Tata Group.

“The induction of an advanced Boeing aircraft into Air India’s fleet is like the dawn of a new beginning. The brand-new B787-9 is not just the first line-fit Dreamliner, it is a new hope for Air India to reclaim its dominance in the nonstop flights service corridor, like from USA to India. Inarguably, aircraft shortage is the principal reason for continued suspension of Air India flights to Washington Dulles IAD since 01 September 2025,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor at IndianEagle.com.

In addition to a Boeing 787-9, Air India took phased delivery of six widebody A350-900s as part of its historic Airbus order including 34 A350-1000s. The safest and best aircraft in Air India’s long-haul fleet, A350-900s have stabilized operations for nonstop flights from New Delhi to New York JFK, Newark EWR, and London Heathrow. Air India’s A350 flights with Premium Economy seats, best-in-class amenities, superlative inflight service, and choicest food have earned rave reviews from passengers traveling between New York and New Delhi.

B777-200LRs leased from Delta Airlines and B777-300ERs leased from Etihad could not survive the pitfalls of Pakistan’s airspace closure, such as rerouting of long-haul flights, refueling stops in Europe, longer travel time, stretched crew duty hours, additional fuel intake, and increased operational overheads. That’s why Air India decided to operate two key routes – San Francisco to Mumbai and Bengaluru – with short layovers in the US and/or India, starting in March this year.

The post After Welcoming New B787-9 in January, Air India to Resume Discontinued Nonstop Flights with More New Aircraft in 2026 first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

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“Air India cancelling San Francisco to Mumbai and Bengaluru flights starting March 2026, is in the news today. Travelers hit the panic button over their bookings for travel to India in 2026. We are experiencing an influx of queries, like when Air India would resume these routes, when they would be able to book these routes for their parents’ convenient travel on Air India,” said Dheeraj Dhuvvuru, CEO of IndianEagle.com.

The Air India news trending online is not true. In fact, Air India will continue to operate from SFO to Bengaluru and Mumbai through 2026, but flights are no longer nonstop or point to point. In fact, Air India flights from SFO to Mumbai and Bengaluru stopped being nonstop when Pakistan closed its airspace for Indian airlines in April 2025. For the past 9 months, Air India has been making route adjustments to bypass the restricted airspace and rerouting these flights with short fueling stops in Vienna or Kolkata (CCU).

Air India flights to and from San Francisco in 2026

San Francisco to Mumbai has one-stop or two-stop operations in Air India’s 2026 schedule. In some itineraries, Alaska Airlines being an interline partner will connect to Air India flights from New York JFK to Mumbai. In some itineraries, Air India will operate this long-haul route via Kolkata and Delhi as short layovers (1 to 2 hours each). The flight from SFO to Kolkata, and from Kolkata to DEL Airport is the same, AI 174 (B777-300ER). It means no aircraft change, no deboarding at CCU Airport. The leg from New Delhi to Mumbai (final destination) involves aircraft change.

Air India flights from SFO to Bengaluru will continue to have two pitstops – Kolkata and Delhi – in 2026.  But AI flights, BLR to SFO, are one-stop itineraries via New Delhi Airport. To be precise, nonstop travel from San Francisco to Mumbai and Bengaluru is a thing of the past. Domestic layovers are common in Air India’s international operations.

With Mumbai or Bengaluru being your final destination, Air India will be flying through New Delhi, one of the two domestic pitstops for flights originating in San Francisco. There is not only aircraft change but also terminal change at Delhi IGI Airport. You need to transfer from Terminal 3 to T2 at DEL Airport for domestic connection to Mumbai or Bengaluru.

Are Air India flights from SFO to Delhi nonstop? 

Since Air India is rerouting flights from San Francisco over Mongolian airspace between Russia and China, it has changed the course of SFO-DEL itineraries, which include a short refueling stop in Kolkata. There is no deboarding of passengers for aircraft or terminal change at Kolkata Airport during a layover of up to 1.5 hours.

Luckily, most of Air India flights from New Delhi to San Francisco are nonstop, and total travel time is 17 hours. B777-200LRs from Air India’s fleet will operate this route with fuel efficiency, spacious cabins, flat-bed seating (in Business Class), and other modern features.

Alternate options to Air India for SFO to India travel

Though the flying time from SFO to Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi has increased by 8 to 10 hours due to domestic pitstops, many Indians still prefer Air India over other airlines due to no international transit. If you’re looking for alternate options to Air India flights from SFO to India, you can check out Indian Eagle deals from other airlines or call +1800-615-3969 for phone-only budget deals. By the way, don’t give a miss to our Christmas-special flight discount coupons for your travel in 2026.

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Both the US and India are high-traffic markets for Turkish Airlines. After having expanded beyond New Delhi and Mumbai through IndiGo in India, Turkish Airlines is eyeing expansion across USA through Southwest Airlines, a leading low-cost carrier headquartered in Texas. The recently announced Turkish-Southwest partnership will take effect in early 2026, enabling seamless domestic connections through America for both inbound and outbound passengers of Turkish Airlines.

Benefits of Turkish–Southwest partnership for US–India travelers

Currently, Turkish Airlines operates point-to-point flights between USA and India via Istanbul. Within the US, it does not serve destinations beyond its 14 American gateways: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Miami, Dallas DFW, Houston, NY JFK, Newark EWR, and Washington DC (IAD). As an interline partner, Southwest Airlines will provide further domestic connections from 10 of Turkish Airlines gateways in the US.

Starting in 2026, you will be able to continue your journey on Southwest Airlines’ domestic flights from:

• Atlanta to Memphis, Nashville, Montgomery, Charleston, Raleigh
• Boston to Philadelphia, Portland, Hartford, Atlantic City
• Chicago to Minneapolis, Columbus, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Louisville
• Seattle to Alaska, Portland, Boise, Salem
• Los Angeles to Phoenix, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Houston
• San Francisco to Las Vegas, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Santa Barbara
• DC IAD to Charleston, Charlotte, Lexington, Cleveland
• Detroit to Madison, Cincinnati, Des Moines, Indianapolis, Cleveland

Precisely, Turkish Airlines’ passengers from India and other countries can fly to their final destinations from the above 10 entry airports in USA. Likewise, travelers from Southwest Airlines’ domestic network can seamlessly board Turkish Airlines flights to India and other destinations at those major US gateway airports. The Southwest-Turkish partnership will help expand your itineraries on single flight tickets, making it easier to manage the journey. Turkish Airlines’ global passengers can travel to over 100 US cities where Türkiye’s flag carrier does not fly to.

Turkish Airlines’ baggage allowance through Southwest’s domestic network

Effective 28 May 2025, Southwest Airlines eliminated its liberal “bags fly free” policy to charge domestic passengers for checked bags. Southwest Airlines’ new checked baggage fee is $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second bag. But Turkish Airlines’ passengers are exempt from paying Southwest Airlines’ checked baggage fees due to the Turkish-Southwest partnership. Turkish Airlines’ free checked baggage allowance will apply throughout your itinerary including the leg to be operated by Southwest Airlines.

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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.

Cathay Pacific resuming flights to Seattle 

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 connecting Charlotte to India via Abu Dhabi

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 resuming flights to St. Louis and Dallas DFW 

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.

Interestingly, British Airways will resume its service to Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, and Miami, Florida in summer 2026. Reportedly, British Airways’ Dallas to India flights via London Heathrow will be restored with a daily service, while Miami International Airport will get a double daily service by the airline. BA is also ramping up its frequency to 14 weekly services to San Diego and Austin in the south coast.

EgyptAir making comeback to Chicago and LAX

EgyptAir is reviving some of its previously terminated services to the United States. Los Angeles LAX and Chicago ORD airports will welcome EgyptAir flights back in 2026. With flights to Los Angeles in May and to Chicago in June 2026, EgyptAir will venture into the Midwest and Southwest regions. Currently, it serves only the US east coast -New York JFK, Newark EWR, and Washington DC, IAD.    

Like the Middle East carriers, EgyptAir operates one-stop flights between USA and India via its hub, Cairo International Airport. The upcoming EgyptAir flights from LAX and ORD to Cairo will further connect to New Delhi and Mumbai. Like Ethiopian Airlines’free stopover in Addis Ababa, EgyptAir’s Cairo stopover comes with free accommodation during a layover over 6 hours. International transit passengers can obtain a free 96-hour transit visa to Egypt for a hassle-free stopover.       

Turkish Airlines’ partnership with Southwest Airlines  

Turkish Airlines has long been eying expansion in both the US and India. While IndiGo serves the purpose by connecting Turkish Airlines’ passengers to its domestic network across India, Southwest Airlines will be serving the same purpose in the US starting 2026. Recently, Southwest Airlines announced interline partnership with Turkish Airlines – which will be effective in 2026.

As an interline partner, Southwest will provide seamless domestic connections to and from Turkish Airlines’ major US gateways, including Dallas DFW, Houston, Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, New York, and Washington DC. Grab Turkish Airlines’ lowest fare deals for US-India travel at IndianEagle.com.

Air France adding Las Vegas to its network

Come April 2026, Air France will start a three-weekly service to Las Vegas – the entertainment capital of the world. As per the 2026 summer flight schedule, Air France will connect Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to Paris CDG on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Like British Airways and KLM, Air France flights from Las Vegas will further connect to India and other countries. Since 2021, Air France has been expanding its US network: Denver in 2021, Dallas DFW in 2022, Raleigh RDU in 2023, Phoenix in 2024, and Orlando, FL in 2025.

Subscribe to Travel Beats, a leading US-India travel news portal for everything from transit visa to travel hacks, baggage allowance, transit 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 Airlines Adding New Flight Routes to US-India Corridor in 2026 for Your Better Travel Options first appeared on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

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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.