Diwali is that time of the year when Indians spend heavily for new purchases and seek discounts, at the same time. They buy new clothes on one hand and reuse old clothes as dusters for pre-Diwali cleaning on the other hand. Celebrating this facet of Indianness, Indian Eagle – the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indians in America – has brought you Diwali 2026 flight sale with a special discount for your next travel during winter holidays or anytime in 2027.

2026 Diwali Flight Sale with Indian Eagle Discount 

On the occasion of Diwali 2026, Indian Eagle – your trusted travel-booking partner – is offering fare discount coupons, IEDIWALITB, from November 6 to 10, 2026. You can redeem the coupon to get a flat $25 OFF on flight tickets from USA to India and beyond, irrespective of airlines, routes, and trip types (one-way, round trip, or multi-city).

• Booking Period: November 6 to 10, 2026 (CST hours)
• Travel Period: Any time in 2026 or 2027
• Valid for only direct online bookings at IndianEagle.com
• Valid for one-way travel, round-trip, and multi-city bookings
• Valid for only international flights originating in the US
• Valid on also Eagle Deals available on Indian Eagle website

Is it the right time to buy flight tickets for travel in January 2027? 

60 days prior to your travel dates in January 2027 makes an ideal time to get the best international flight deals. On top of that Indian Eagle’s Diwali discount offer is like a cherry on the cake. Our fare research team continues to discover the cheapest days to fly from USA to India every month and share route-specific best Indian Eagle flight deals on Instagram.

Can I get this Diwali discount on last-minute flight booking?

Yes, the Diwali discount code – IEDIWALITB – is valid for an extra $25 discount on select last-minute flight deals from USA to India. You can call or WhatsApp the Indian Eagle team of fare economists on +1800-615-3969 for exclusive phone-only deals for your last-minute international travel. Precisely, Indian Eagle’s phone-only deals are cheaper than regular online fares. Please note that last-minute travel bookings are not eligible for the free 24-hour cancellation window.

2026 Diwali Discount Offer Validity 

Indian Eagle’s Diwali offer – $25 discount on flight tickets to India – is valid through from 6 to 10 November 2026. Precisely, you can book air tickets from USA to India during the offer validity period for traveling any time in 2026 or 2027. In short, book now and travel later.

How many times you can use the discount code 

You can get the discount only once on booking of travel for one traveler or more, but not per person/traveler in a reservation. If you are planning a holiday trip to India for two travelers, you can use the same discount code – IEDIWALITB – to get $25 off for both by booking their flight tickets separately and using different email IDs as well as contact numbers.

The post 2026 Diwali Flight Sale: Indian Eagle Discount for Cheap Air Tickets from USA to India and Beyond first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post 2026 Diwali Flight Sale: Indian Eagle Discount for Cheap Air Tickets from USA to India and Beyond appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Traveling to the United States on or after November 3, 2026? You must fulfil a new health requirement and declare your travel history before entering the US. To keep the US borders safe from the rising Ebola cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an entry requirement for all international arrivals. The USA’s new health and travel history declaration rule applies to inbound travelers regardless of nationality, visa type, itinerary, and travel origin.

When airline passengers to USA must submit an Ebola declaration?

Amid the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, the new CDC rule for inbound travelers will take effect at 11:59 pm ET on November 3, which corresponds to 10.39 am IST on November 4. If you are traveling to or through the United States, you must submit the declaration before boarding a US-bound flight at the departure airport in the country of travel origin.

Who need to submit the declaration prior to flying to USA?

The US travel requirement is compulsory for anyone flying to or through the United States. Americans returning from an international trip, and foreign nationals visiting USA for any purpose are required to submit the declaration that they have not been to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) within 21 days before boarding flights to USA.

How to declare your health and travel history to the US CDC?

The CDC places the onus of collecting US-bound travelers’ Ebola health and travel declaration on airlines. Precisely, airlines are responsible for checking passengers’ declarations with attestation, effective 11:59 pm ET on November 3. You can download this CDC passenger disclosure form, fill out and attest it with your signature, and hand over to the airline at the departure airport.

The declaration method may vary depending on airlines. Some airlines may integrate a digital declaration form into their web check-in process, requiring passengers to check a box if they have not visited or travelled through the DRC within 21 days prior to flying to the US. Some airlines may ask passengers to fill out a paper form and attest their declaration with a signature.

The CDC directed all airlines to keep a copy of passenger declarations for 42 days after their international flights land at US airports. Airlines must provide this data to the US government on request, along with passenger names, PNRs, itineraries, travel dates, and contact details.

FAQs related to US CDC Ebola passenger declaration

My parents are traveling to USA on November 5. Can I submit the declaration on behalf of them?

Yes, you can. Not only for parents, but also a traveler under 18 years of age, you can submit a signed declaration in paper or online. Your parents must provide the airline with a physical or digital copy of the declaration signed and submitted by you on their behalf.

What if I fail to complete the CDC Ebola declaration before arriving in USA?

The CDC clearly states that failure to complete the health and travel history declaration could result in denial of travel to the US. Airlines, at their discretion, can deny boarding to US-bound passengers for not fulfilling the new entry requirement amid the Ebola outbreak.

I will travel to USA from India. I have no travel history to South Africa. Do I have to follow CDC’s Ebola-related protocol? 

You must submit a signed attestation regarding your health and travel history in paper or digital format as directed by the airline. Effective 3 November, it is mandatory for hassle-free boarding in India and entry to the US. Every passenger to USA has to follow the protocol unless exempted by CDC on medical emergency, humanitarian, or government considerations.

Can I or my parents provide verbal attestation to the airline?

The airline or aircraft operator may accept verbal declaration to complete the CDC attestation form on behalf of you or your parents (traveling alone) given a review of the form and its language, either in print or digital format, by you or your parents.

How long the USA’s Ebola-related CDC protocol remains in effect starting November 3, 2026?

The CDC Order requiring international arrivals to submit a pre-boarding declaration shall remain in effect until December 18, 2026 or cancelled or amended based on a review of the then scenario in the Ebola-affected countries.

U.S. entry restrictions for travelers who visited Ebola-affected countries  

The United States’ Ebola-related entry rules and restrictions are different for US citizens/nationals and non-US citizens/nationals.

Those with recent travel to Democratic Republic of Congo

Boarding flights to USA is prohibited for US citizens and nationals, non-US citizens and nationals, and Green Card holders who visited Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) within the previous 21 days of their travel to USA. They are required to remain outside DRC for 21 days before taking flights to USA.

Those with recent presence in Uganda or South Sudan 

Re-entry to USA is allowed only through designated airports for American citizens and nationals who visited Uganda or South Sudan within the previous 21 days of arrival in USA. They will undergo Ebola health screening on arrival at the designated airports: NY JFK, Washington Dulles IAD, and Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson airports.

Re-entry to USA is restricted for non-US nationals and citizens, including Green Card holders, until they spend 21 days outside Uganda, South Sudan, and DRC following a visit to any of these African countries and before traveling to USA.

The post Submit This CDC Declaration before Flying to USA: All about USA Entry Rule Effective 3 NOV first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Submit This CDC Declaration before Flying to USA: All about USA Entry Rule Effective 3 NOV appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The world goes on amid geopolitical conflicts, and so does Emirates Airlines. Despite the long-running tensions in West Asia, Emirates is eyeing expansion beyond the 12 American gateways in its current network. Miami International Airport is the last US gateway to have joined Emirates in June 2021. Thereafter, Emirates chose indirect expansion through code-share partnership with United Airlines starting 30 March 2023.

In a recent development, Emirates Airlines hinted at the likelihood of launching flights to Detroit, Michigan; Denver, Colorado; and Philadelphia. Recently, President Sir Tim Clark named these US cities as possible destinations for Emirates flights during the Routes World Conference. The timeline for these potential launches depends on new aircraft delivery from Emirates’ order book.

Emirates’ competition in Detroit, Denver, Philadelphia 

Turkish Airlines is the only Middle East carrier operating flights to Denver and Detroit. Evidently, it would give competition to Emirates in the fare game, thereby impacting the pricing of international flight tickets to India and other places from these two US cities. Among European airlines, both Lufthansa and Air France have good presence at Detroit (DTW) and Denver (DEN) airports.

When it comes to Philadelphia, Emirates Airlines would have to compete with Qatar Airways, and its code-share partners – British Airways and American Airlines. Among the Oneworld Alliance members, Qatar Airways and British Airways operate flights from Philadelphia to India via Doha and London Heathrow respectively. However, Indians and other Asians from Philadelphia would get another world-class airport to connect through.

“If added to Emirates’ US network, Philadelphia being located only 80 miles from Newark EWR and 94 miles from JFK may have cheaper flight deals to India. It is too early to say anything though. We always encourage our customers to check flight ticket prices from two or three airports for the same destination. Sometimes, flying from a nearby airport costs a few tens of dollars less than the nearest airport,” said Dheeraj Duvvuru, CEO of IndianEagle.com.

Are you still looking for the best live flight deals to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Australia for your next travel? Check IndianEagle.com or call / WhatsApp on 1-800-615-3969 for discounted phone-only fares that you cannot find on the Internet. Indian Eagle is the most trusted travel-booking partner of Indians, Americans, and other Asian immigrants for the past 20 years.

The post Emirates Plans US Expansion with Detroit, Denver, Philadelphia Flights to India and Other Places first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Emirates Plans US Expansion with Detroit, Denver, Philadelphia Flights to India and Other Places appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Traveling to the United States or returning from a trip? A sudden change in the immigration process for arrivals may catch you off guard. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has officially ended the long-time tradition of stamping passports, following an announcement on October 1, 2026. Outlined in a bulletin, the decision is part of a broader change aimed at improving travelers’ experience on arrival in the US.

USA ends passport stamps for inbound travelers; Why 

CBP, a federal law enforcement agency, described passport stamping as an obsolete practice in view of facial biometric and automation technology. It unnecessarily consumes time and incurs costs. The decision to eliminate passport stamping from the arrival process aims to reduce operating costs and save time for CBP officers during busy travel times of the year. This is one of the thoughtful initiatives by CBP to modernize operations and optimize resources.

Do passport stamps disappear entirely from US airports?

No. Admission stamps on the arriving travelers’ passports cease only during primary screening – the first CBP checkpoint that you go through on arrival. The CBP confirmed that you may still get admission stamp during secondary screening if you go through further checks. Even some unprecedented situations at the initial stage of CBP inspection may get your passport stamped.

Passport stamps are still crucial for US immigrants and visa holders

Though passport stamping is a routine procedure, it physically records the arrival of Green Card and visa holders after a period of travel and/or stay abroad. Precisely, it is physical proof of their legal entry into USA. At the same time, the CBP’s electronic I-94 system automatically records their entry and exit.

With the phased elimination of passport stamping, the electronic I-94 Form becomes the main proof of entry into the US, exit from the US, and authorized duration of stay in the US for B1/B2 tourists, non-immigrant visa holders, Green Card holders and other US immigrants. Not visa validity, but Form I-94 decides your length of stay in the US, and shows how long you have been outside the US during an international trip.

What if CBP’s I-94 system does not log your US entry timely or accurately due to electronic failure or some other reason? In such unprecedented events, passport stamps are required as physical evidence of your admission into the US. For instance, a Green Card holder returns to the US after 158 days of stay abroad. If the I-94 system does not log your entry on time, your absence from the US will accrue beyond 158 days – which is likely to put your LPR status at risk according to Green Card Travel Rules, said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor at IndianEagle.com.

Can you request a passport stamp when entering the US?

While making the official announcement to end passport stamping, the CBP said that personal requests for a stamp would be honored. If you want to keep a physical record of your entry to USA, a CBP officer will stamp your passport on request.

This insightful news article is brought to you by Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking partner of Americans, Indians, and other immigrants in North America. Call or WhatsApp 1800-615-3969 for phone-only flight deals cheaper than regular online fares, and subscribe to Travel Beats for international travel news that may impact your travel.

The post USA Ends Passport Stamps for Travelers; What It Means for Green Card and Visa Holders first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post USA Ends Passport Stamps for Travelers; What It Means for Green Card and Visa Holders appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Among the major Asian carriers, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines have actively been serving US-India routes. Other Asian carriers are now emerging in this high-traffic travel corridor. While EVA Air is gearing up for the scheduled launch of its New Delhi flight, Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced its plans to connect Mumbai and New Delhi to Manila and beyond starting in December 2026. Manila, the Philippine capital and PAL hub, has good nonstop flight connectivity to the US.

Philippine Airlines flights to Delhi and Mumbai

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is making a comeback to India after around 13 years. It will resume the long-suspended Delhi to Manila flights and launch Mumbai to Manila service this December 2026. December 14 and 15 are the tentative dates for these upcoming services, subject to regulatory approvals, as some sources revealed. PAL flights to and from Mumbai will be four in a week, and DEL to Manila will get weekly three service. Philippine Airlines’ India to Manila service frequency will remain a total 7 flights a week through the winter schedule.

Mumbai to Manila Flight Schedule

• PR647 Mumbai to Manila: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
• PR646 Manila to Mumbai: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday

New Delhi to Manila Flight Schedule

• PR643 Delhi to Manila: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
• PR642 Manila to Delhi: Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Travel between USA and India via Manila

Like alternative airlines operating some major routes between the US and India, Philippine Airlines will connect these countries via its hub, Manila International Airport. Currently, PAL operates 38 weekly nonstop flights from Manila to its US gateways: New York JFK, Seattle Tacoma, Los Angeles LAX, San Francisco SFO, and Honolulu HNL. Once you reach Manila, you can connect onward to the US on Philippine Airlines. Like the Middle East and European airlines, PAL flight itineraries, USA to India, will come with single bookings and thorough baggage transfer.

PAL flights to USA: City-wise frequency

• Los Angeles: 18 weekly service
• San Francisco: 7 weekly service
• Seattle: 5 weekly service
• Honolulu: 5 weekly service
• New York: 3 weekly service (increasing to 4 a week on 2 December)
• Chicago ORD: new 3 weekly service (from November 9, 2026)

PAL City Layover Program for Transit Passengers in Manila  

Philippine Airlines’ PAL City Layover in Manila is a complimentary program for international transit passengers connecting through MNL Airport. The airline offers complimentary shuttle transfers to Newport World Resorts in Metro Manila for international passengers with a layover of 8 hours or more. PAL passengers can unwind, relax, dine, and enjoy entertainment at their own expense before their connecting flight to the destination. Eligible passengers can register for the program at a designated PAL transit desk at MNL Airport, NAIA.

Manila Airport as a Transit Hub for International Passengers

Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) can be a convenient transit hub for Indian travelers flying to the USA with Philippine Airlines, especially when both flights operate from Terminal 1, where PAL’s international flights are based. Transit passengers can use the 24-hour Terminal 1 Transit Lounge, while eligible Business Class and other qualifying passengers can access the Mabuhay Lounge with food, drinks and Wi-Fi. Overall, Manila offers a practical alternative to traditional Middle Eastern transit hubs for travelers taking a Delhi/Mumbai → Manila → USA itinerary.

The post PAL Announces Delhi and Mumbai Flights to Manila with USA Connections first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post PAL Announces Delhi and Mumbai Flights to Manila with USA Connections appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

You may end up checking in your carry-on bags for international flights departing from US airports. The new TSA CT scanners, which are rolling out across the US for nearly $800 million, may send overstuffed and/or oversized carry-on bags back to airline check-in counters. Since not all carry-on items go through 3D CT scanners, passengers should either leave them behind or check in them with the airline.

TSA Security Screening: CT Scanners vs Old X-ray Machines

Nearly 300 airports in the US have installed 1200 CT scanners and replaced the old X-ray machines from TSA security lanes, as of mid-2026. Daniel Velez, a TSA spokesperson in Florida, confirmed that not all carry-on bags fit through the new advanced scanners (Computed tomography), because the tunnel opening is smaller than opening of the previous machines.

The rollout of TSA’s new CT scanners is a significant upgrade to US airport security and aviation safety. Unlike traditional luggage X-ray machines, CT scanners provide fool-proof screening of items within carry-on bags. Airport security checkpoints with the new TSA scanner don’t require you to unbag 3:1:1 liquids, laptops and other electronic devices. This sort of convenience was long overdue for passengers who arrive late for a flight or get stuck in a long line.

The only disadvantage of 3D luggage scanners at the US airports is their smaller opening, 24.5 inches (width) by 16.5 inches (height). It nearly blocks the tunnel opening for bulky carry-on items, oversized cabin bags, and bags with bulging outer compartments, requiring them to be checked. Computed Tomography scanners can accommodate and screen cabin luggage with standard dimensions (22 x 15 x 9 inches) for international flights.

International Airlines’ Carry-on Luggage Dimensions 

Knowing airlines’ cabin baggage sizes for international passengers helps avoid last-minute hassles, given airports and airlines’ growing reliance on automated bag sizer and digital scanners for carry-ons. These days, wheels and handles strictly count towards bag sizes. Gate agents are flagging cabin luggage whose wheels, pockets, and/or handles exceed the acceptable size limits.

• Air Canada: 21.5 x 15.7 x 9 inches
• Air France: 46.5 inches (L+W+H)
• Air India: 21 x 15 x 7 inches
• Air New Zealand: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• British Airways: 22 × 18 × 10 inches
• KLM: 21.5 x 13.5 x 10 inches
• Lufthansa: 21.7 x 15.7 x 9
• Korean Air: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9
• Philippines Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Virgin Atlantic: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Thai Airways: 22 x 18 x 10
• Singapore Airlines: 45.3 inches (L+W+H)
• Emirates: 21.65 x 14.96 x 8.66 inches

What if Your Carry-on Bag does not Fit a TSA CT Scanner    

According to the TSA guidelines, standby officers may offer to inspect your bag manually, or redirect you to the lane where an older X-ray machine is still operating. In the worst case, you have no choice other than checking it in at an additional cost, as per the airline’s paid checked baggage fees depending on your travel class, fare type, and route. The third or the last option has become a common incidence at the CT-equipped TSA checkpoints, according to several reports.

Also, heading back to the airline counter and going through the baggage check-in process may eat into your boarding time.

What You can Do to Avoid Checking in Carry-on Bag

“The Transportation Administration Authority (TSA) is calling for strict compliance when it comes to packing carry-on bags. You should pack cabin bags in such a way that it does not inflate the external pockets and force expansion by opening the second zipline. Here’s only fix get your cabin luggage through TSA CT scanners and avoid checking in with the airline, said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor at IndianEagle.com, a leading air-ticketing partner of international airlines.

• Check your airline’s cabin bag size guidelines.
• Make sure your carry-on does not exceed the dimensions.
• Avoid overpacking cabin bags and overstuffing external pockets.
• Avid packing bulky items into carry-ons.

Major US Airports with TSA’s 3D CT scanners

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport, ATL
• Boston Logan Airport, BOS
• Chicago O’Hare Airport, ORD
• Dallas Fort Worth Airport, DFW
• Los Angeles Airport, LAX
• New York JFK Airport
• Newark Liberty Airport, EWR
• Washington Dulles Airport, IAD
• Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, PHX
• Indianapolis Airport, IND
• Detroit Metropolitan Airport, DTW
• Miami International Airport, MIA
• Seattle Tacoma Airport, SEA
• Raleigh-Durham Airport, RDU
• Charlotte Douglas Airport, CLT
• San Francisco Airport, SFO
• Philadelphia Airport, PHL

How TSA’s New CT Scanners Work 

3D CT scanners are designed with a comparatively small tunnel mouth to deliver optimal performance, said Daniel Velez, a TSA spokesperson. They leverage advanced imaging technology to detect the shape and fathom the density of items packed in carry-ons, enabling TSA officers to see through the items. Unlike the older X-ray machines, this newer technology generates hundreds of images from different angles to project rotating 3D models of cabin bags’ content on the security officer’s screen. Some of the benefits of using CT scanners in TSA security lanes:

• Threat detection with greater accuracy
• Faster security screening process
• No removal of fluids and electronic items
• Reduced physical inspection of carry-ons
• Reduced hassles and frustration to travelers

The post At US Airports, TSA CT Scanners may Force You to Check in Carry-on Bags first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post At US Airports, TSA CT Scanners may Force You to Check in Carry-on Bags appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Flying in India is getting costlier, and passengers may now have to dig deeper into their pockets for some of the services that come with a flight. IndiGo, country’s largest airline, has revised its add-on fees in 2026, raising charges for excess baggage, infant travel, unaccompanied minors, and Fast Forward (priority boarding service). With a fleet of over 430 planes, the airline operates nearly 2,200 daily flights. Check below for the Indigo 2026 increased fees for several ancillary services.

IndiGo new charges 2026:

• Infant travel fee: The domestic infant fee has increased from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000, a 50% rise. The charge applies to infants below 2 years, who travel on an accompanying adult’s lap without a separate seat.

• Unaccompanied minor service: The fee for children travelling without an accompanying adult has gone up from ₹5,000 to ₹5,999 on domestic flights. For international travel, the service now costs ₹12,999.

• Excess baggage: Passengers carrying baggage beyond the permitted allowance will now pay ₹800 per extra kg at the airport, compared with ₹700 earlier.

• Fast Forward: IndiGo’s priority check-in and boarding service now costs ₹650 per passenger per sector on domestic flights, up from ₹500. The charge for international flights is ₹850 per sector.

• Travel certificate: The airline has also raised the cost of a travel certificate to ₹300, up from ₹200.

The post IndiGo Fees Hike for Infant Travel, Excess Baggage, Unaccompanied Minors first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post IndiGo Fees Hike for Infant Travel, Excess Baggage, Unaccompanied Minors appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

Route, demand, seat availability, and travel time of the year influence international flight pricing dynamics. When airline fares drop or go up does also depend on intermittent geopolitical issues, as seen in the aftermath and during the peak of the West Asia conflict 2026. While these factors are external and unavoidable, the cheapest days to fly from USA to India in 2026 are still under your control because it depends on when you travel.

Airlines keep adjusting flight ticket prices to their inventory of seats and the real-time demand. It makes USA to India flight deals volatile on any day of the week. Yet, when it comes to traveling internationally, flying mid-week is usually cheaper than flying on weekends, according to several reports. Both the best days to book airline tickets and the cheapest days to travel help you with airfare savings.

Cheapest days to fly in 2026, USA to India and other countries

Stats from various sources, including Indian Eagle’s in-house fare data analysis, count Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as the cheapest days to travel, as business and leisure travel has lower demand for midweek flights. Some airlines and some routes have the best deals for Friday departures compared to weekend travel. For instance, Boston to New Delhi flights are much cheaper than JFK to DEL fares for mid-week or Friday travel. The most expensive days for international travel are Saturdays and Sundays. Most of the below fares are for midweek travel, evidencing the fact that midweek flights are comparatively cheaper.

A few cheapest flight deals for US-India round trips in 2026

Round-trip Fare: $894

• Dates: Onward (THU) 26 NOV | Return (MON) 14 DEC 2026
• Route: NY JFK to Mumbai BOM
• Airline: Etihad (EY)

Round-trip Fare: $907

• Dates: Onward (MON) 9 NOV | Return (WED) 23 DEC 2026
• Route: D.C. IAD to DEL
• Airline: Qatar Airways (QR)

Round-trip Fare: $931

• Dates: Onward (THU) 19 NOV | Return (MON) 21 DEC 2026
• Route: SFO to Mumbai BOM
• Airline: Air India (AI)

Round-trip Fare: $944

• Dates: Onward (WED) 2 DEC | Return (THU) 14 JAN 2027
• Route: Newark EWR to BOM
• Airline: Emirates (EK)

Round-trip Fare: $936

• Dates: Onward (SUN) 22 NOV |Return (WED) 20 JAN 2027
• Route: D.C. IAD to Hyderabad
• Airline: Etihad (EY)

Round-trip Fare: $958

• Dates: Onward (TUE) 1 DEC | Return (THU) 14 JAN 2027
• Route: Boston to Mumbai
• Airline: Emirates (EK)

Round-trip Fare: $1098

• Dates: Onward (SAT) 28 NOV | Return (THU) 17 DEC 2026
• Route: SFO to Delhi
• Airline: Air India (AI)

What matters more than cheapest days of the week to fly

How early you book international fight tickets matters more than when you fly during winter holidays 2026. Even the cheapest deals for Tuesday or Wednesday travel change with the passing of days. The nearer your travel dates are, the higher the fares are. The lesser the seat availability, the more the fare. These pricing dynamics are not myths in civil aviation. Even the above Indian Eagle deals available for booking now – may not be available the next week or month.

Early travel planning has certain benefits:

• You can access plenty of best live flight deals online and offline
• You have freedom of time to compare fares as many as possible
• You have better chances to get your preferred seat (s) available
• You get ample time to check and arrange all travel documents
• You can cancel tickets and rebook travel at the best fares (if necessary)

Indian Eagle Discount Coupon: 2026 Ganesh Chaturthi

On the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi 2026, your trusted air-ticketing and travel-booking partner Indian Eagle offers fare discount coupons, GANESHTB26, from September 12 to 18, 2026. You can redeem the coupon to get a flat $25 OFF on select flights from USA to India and beyond, irrespective of airlines, routes, trip types, and travel class.

• Booking Period: September 12 to 18, 2026 (CST hours)
• Travel Period: Any time in 2026 or 2027
• Valid for only direct online bookings at IndianEagle.com
• Valid for one-way travel, round-trip, and multi-city bookings
• Valid for international flights originating in the US
• Valid on also Eagle Deals available on Indian Eagle website
• The Indian Eagle discount coupon, GANESHTB26, is transferable. You can share it with your friends in USA.

How early should you book flight tickets    

Do neither book too far in advance nor too close to travel dates. Two to four months in advance for international travel is the best time to book flight tickets from USA to India and other countries. Given that, this is the ideal time to explore and book unbeatable flight deals for a winter holiday trip in late November or early December 2026. You may get some best deals in October too, but your preferred seat (s) has no guaranteed availability.

The post Cheapest Days to Fly from USA to India in 2026; A List of Winter Travel Dates with Best Deals first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Cheapest Days to Fly from USA to India in 2026; A List of Winter Travel Dates with Best Deals appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The US aviation is back to the pe-9/11 era. The TSA is unrestricting airport terminals to let non-travelers enter the secure areas, such as boarding, retail shopping, and dining, without boarding passes or flight tickets. The new TSA program 2026 is Gateside by TSA PreCheck launched at 13 US airports, including Dallas DFW, Detroit DTW, and Los Angeles LAX. TSA Gateside is the pass for eligible non-flyers to access PreCheck lanes, get past security, and see off or welcome family and friends.

What is Gateside TSA PreCheck program? 

Gateside is the TSA’s latest US airport security rule change starting in September 2026. Unlike airport guest passes or airport escort gate passes, the Gateside pilot program is limited to TSA PreCheck members and those with Global Entry membership. It works through the TSA’s own airport security infrastructure, meaning approved non-ticketed visitors use the same dedicated PreCheck lanes like ticketed passengers. There’s no general screening line for them.

“The TSA strives to make air travel easier through its passenger-friendly programs. It ended the mandatory shoe removal rule, started the Families on the Fly program, expanded TSA Cares, and launched a pilot trial of self-service e-Gates at select airports. Not everyone can accompany their traveling family or parents from departure to destination. Walking them to the boarding gate before seeing off is that feeling of comfort and assurance that we long for other than booking the best international flights for them,” said Dheeraj Duvvuru, CEO of IndianEagle.com.

Who are eligible for TSA Gateside Pass? 

Not every non-traveler can get TSA Gateside passes. Since it is built entirely around the TSA’s own trusted traveler network, you must have TSA PreCheck membership or a Known Traveler Number (KTN) through a trusted traveler program like Global Entry. Other than them, certain federal employees may qualify for the new TSA program.

How to apply for TSA PreCheck Gateside  

Applying for Gateside is entirely online, and timing matters. There is no offline or in-person application option before your visit. Everything runs through TSA’s own digital portal.

• Sign in or register: Create a Login.gov account, or sign in if you already have one.
• Apply early: Submit your request 1 to 3 days before your planned visit — not sooner, not later.
• Enter your details: Provide your KTN, full name, and date of birth exactly as they appear on your trusted traveler enrolment.
• Add children, if any: Use the “add visitor” option to include kids in your application.
• Check for approval: Approval doesn’t come instantly, so get back to the portal to check the booking status before you head out.

Also Check: US Passport Renewal News for Americans Abroad

List of US airports with TSA PreCheck Gateside 

• Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA), Arizona
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), Ohio
• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), Michigan
• Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT), Kansas
• Indianapolis International Airport (IND), Indiana
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California
• Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT), Arkansas
• Will Rogers World Airport, Oklahoma City (OKC), Oklahoma
• Eppley Airfield, Omaha, Nebraska
• San Diego International Airport (SAN), California
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), Utah

What are TSA Gateside rules and limitations?

• Passes are valid for one calendar day only, with re-entry allowed
• Daily approval caps apply, and TSA hasn’t disclosed exact numbers
• A Gateside pass does not permit boarding a flight
• Standard TSA screening and airport code of conduct still apply

Is there any fee for TSA Gateside Pass? 

Unlike other TSA programs, the new Gateside Pass is completely free for US citizens, non-citizens, and visa holders. You can enter the airport terminal for free and see off your family or receive them within the secure area.

Is TSA Gateside available at JFK, BOS, SEA-TAC, O’Hare, Atlanta, and DC IAD airport?

Not as of today. This new airport entry program currently runs at select 13 US airports (mentioned above). Gateside will expand to other major airports in the coming months in 2026. Travel Beats, the Indian Eagle blog, will update this article accordingly.

TSA offers Gateside Pass for LAX and San Diego airports. Why not for SFO Airport?

The Gateside Pass will roll out at SFO Airport in the next phase (anytime in 2026). Yet, you can enter SFO Airport terminals and go past TSA security using the SFO Gate Explorer Pass. It is San Francisco International Airport’s own visitor pass program launched in April 2026. In case TSA falls short of Gateside passes for San Diego Airport, or you are not able to secure one for a particular day, you can apply for San Diego International Airport’s SAN Visitor Pass launched in November 2025.

The post TSA Launches Gateside Pass Allowing Non-Flyers at US Airports; All about New TSA Rule Change first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post TSA Launches Gateside Pass Allowing Non-Flyers at US Airports; All about New TSA Rule Change appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

If you are planning a trip to Mumbai in or after October 2026, your arrival airport may change and you should keep a lookout on this. Over 30% of international operations are likely to shift from CSMI Airport to the newly built Navi Mumbai Airport in phases. The shifting of some international flights is intended to make space for the long-pending redevelopment of Terminal 1 at Mumbai Airport (BOM).

When Mumbai Airport flights shift to Navi Mumbai?

Some international flight operations would move from Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 2 to Navi Mumbai (NMI) starting October 1, 2026. Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) is looking to transfer nearly half of domestic traffic movements from Terminal 1 to T2, because the domestic T1 is scheduled to undergo redevelopment in January 2027. Reportedly, MIAL held a meeting with major airlines and asked them to shift at least one-third of their BOM flights to Navi Mumbai International Airport.

What about your existing booking for Mumbai      

You must stay alert if Mumbai BOM Airport is the origin or destination in your existing reservation for scheduled travel in October 2026. The airline you have booked your travel on will notify you about the terminal change or airport change on time, if your departure or arrival flight shifts from Mumbai Airport to the new Navi Mumbai Airport. You should keep an eye on the email inbox for notifications from the airline and/or your travel-booking partner. However, it is too early to expect any update from airlines now.

CSMIA flights shift: Upcoming changes for travelers

Since major airlines will divide their operations between the two Mumbai airports, some flights to and from Mumbai may not show up for CSMI Airport starting mid-September or October 1, 2026. Don’t worry! You can search for flights to Navi Mumbai (NMI) from USA or any other country on IndianEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Indian Diaspora. Learn more about flying to and from Navi Mumbai Airport, a world-class gateway to India.

Not only international flights, Mumbai Airport will also move one-third of its domestic operations from T1 to T2, starting October 23, 2026. Among Indian carriers, Akasa Air has already relocated its operations from T1 to Terminal 2. From October 23, you must check the airline email or call the airline and get the latest terminal update for your departure flight before leaving for Mumbai CSMI Airport.

Which terminal Air India operates from at Mumbai Airport?

Air India operates both domestic and international flights from Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 2 (BOM). As of today, very little information is available regarding whether some Air India flights from Mumbai to JFK, Newark, London, and Singapore will shift from CSMIA to NMIA in October. Indian Eagle that offers unbeatable flight deals from Mumbai to USA, Canada, the UK, and the UAE is trying to contact Air India. We will keep updating this space from time to time.

The post Mumbai Airport Changes: International Flights Move to Navi Mumbai in October 2026 first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post Mumbai Airport Changes: International Flights Move to Navi Mumbai in October 2026 appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.