Air India resumes direct Delhi-Rome flights after six-year hiatus

After a gap of nearly six years, Air India has resumed its non-stop service between Delhi and Rome, marking a fresh push to expand its footprint in Europe and reconnect the two capital cities. The airline inaugurated its four-times-a-week direct service to Rome Fiumicino Airport, making Rome its eighth gateway in mainland Europe and second destination in Italy after Milan.

Flight AI123 departed from Delhi at 1.32 pm on March 25 and landed in Rome later in the evening, where it was received by officials from the Indian Embassy, airport authorities and airline representatives. The return flight from Rome reached Delhi at 10.29 am on Thursday.

The inaugural service was flagged off in the presence of senior diplomats and airport officials, including India’s Ambassador to Italy Vani Rao and representatives from Aeroporti di Roma. The launch was marked by ceremonial celebrations, including lamp-lighting and a reception for the first passenger.

Air India said the move comes amid rising demand for travel between India and Europe, driven by both business and leisure segments. The airline also aims to strengthen connectivity through its Delhi hub, offering onward links to destinations across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Officials said Italy continues to be a key partner for India in trade, tourism and cultural exchange. Bilateral trade between the two countries crossed USD 14 billion in 2025, supported by collaboration in sectors such as engineering, automotive, fashion and design. Italy also hosts a large Indian diaspora, with over 200,000 people of Indian origin contributing to steady travel demand.

The Rome route will operate four times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, using the Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The plane is configured with business and economy class cabins, including fully flat beds in business class.