Fly Direct from Ahmedabad to Kuala Lumpur with AirAsia's Latest Route

Fly Direct from Ahmedabad to Kuala Lumpur with AirAsia's Latest Route

By Author

Published on January 19, 2024

AirAsia, a leading airline, has announced a significant expansion of its network with a new route connecting Ahmedabad, India, to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Set to commence on 1 May 2024, this route marks AirAsia’s eleventh connection from India and its third new route introduced in 2024, further solidifying its commitment to enhancing affordable travel between the two countries.

Bridging India and Malaysia

The introduction of this route is a landmark for AirAsia, as it represents the airline's first connection to Gujarat from Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur, known for its vibrant culture and diverse cuisine, is a popular destination for Indian travellers. The city is not just a destination but also a gateway to explore Malaysia's neighbouring regions and famous islands.

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A Strategic Move by AirAsia

Bo Lingam, Group Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Group, shared his excitement about the new venture. “We are thrilled to launch this route, especially following the Indian government's initiative for visa-free entry into Malaysia for Indian nationals," said Lingam. He emphasised Kuala Lumpur's appeal to various travellers, including adventure seekers and food enthusiasts, and AirAsia's role in promoting accessible travel between Malaysia and India.

Expanding AirAsia’s Network in South Asia

AirAsia's new Ahmedabad - Kuala Lumpur route is a strategic addition to its already extensive network. The airline currently operates direct flights from several Indian cities to Malaysia, including Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Kochi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. Additionally, AirAsia X, the airline's affiliate, offers medium-haul flights to New Delhi and Amritsar.

Enhancing Travel Options

In 2024, AirAsia plans to further expand its network in India with upcoming flights from Thiruvananthapuram and Jaipur. The airline is known for its Fly-Thru options, which allow passengers to use Kuala Lumpur as a hub to access over 130 destinations in 22 countries.

The new Ahmedabad - Kuala Lumpur route by AirAsia is not just a new flight option; it's a bridge connecting cultures and economies, strengthening the bond between India and Malaysia, and opening new doors for travellers and trade.


India–UK Free Trade Agreement Eases Visas and Boosts Professional Mobility

India–UK Free Trade Agreement Eases Visas and Boosts Professional Mobility

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 12, 2025

India and the United Kingdom have officially concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), ushering in a new era of professional mobility and bilateral trade between the two nations. Signed on May 6, 2025, the agreement aims to streamline visa procedures and support Indian professionals looking to work in the UK.

The FTA provides simplified entry routes for a range of professionals, including contractual service providers, business visitors, investors, intra-corporate transferees, and independent professionals like yoga instructors, musicians, and chefs. The UK has expanded the list of eligible occupations, but applicants must meet stringent criteria regarding experience and qualifications.

One of the most notable provisions is the waiver of national insurance contributions for UK-based companies that second Indian employees. This exemption applies for the first three years, reducing costs for employers and encouraging more cross-border professional placements.

While critics in the UK have raised concerns about possible impacts on local jobs and increased immigration, British authorities have clarified that this FTA does not alter the country’s points-based immigration system. According to Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, the agreement strictly pertains to temporary business mobility, not permanent immigration.

The long-term benefits are significant. Bilateral trade is projected to grow by GBP 25.5 billion (approximately USD 34 billion) annually by 2040, signalling stronger economic cooperation between the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world.

Overall, the India–UK FTA is a major step toward mutual economic growth, offering smoother pathways for Indian professionals and fostering deeper trade relationships between the two nations.


Tourism Crashes as Operation Sindoor Sparks 90% Booking Cancellations in North India

Tourism Crashes as Operation Sindoor Sparks 90% Booking Cancellations in North India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 11, 2025

The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, India's military strike on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has sent shockwaves through the domestic tourism industry. With rising uncertainty, flight shutdowns, and safety concerns, Northern India’s tourism has come to a standstill as nearly 90% of bookings have been cancelled.

Peak summer travel plans have been upended, especially in popular destinations across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. Airports in Jodhpur, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Jammu, and Kashmir, all close to the international border, have suspended civilian operations till May 10, severely disrupting travel schedules.

“People who were already vacationing in Himachal Pradesh have cut short their trips. The North is totally out of the question now. Nearly 95% of bookings for northern destinations in May have been called off,” said Virendra Shah, a travel consultant.

The ongoing panic has left tour operators and travel consultants struggling. "This is the worst May we’ve seen in years," one operator said, pointing to widespread refund requests and a sharp drop in new enquiries.

Even tourists currently on vacation are opting to play it safe. Prashant Sharma, vacationing in Uttarakhand, said, “We had a packed itinerary from Nainital, Jim Corbett, and Mussoorie to Rishikesh, but we’ve cancelled everything except Nainital. We are heading back as planned from Dehradun.”

Experts say the mood of the traveller has been shaken. “This conflict has not just disrupted logistics; it has disrupted sentiment. Even journeys planned a month from now are being cancelled out of fear,” said Ankit Bajaj, a travel expert. He added that the industry is facing a 70% revenue loss for existing bookings this season.

The uncertainty is spilling over to international travel as well. While a few tourists are still flying to the UK and Spain, many are cancelling trips to Turkey, Dubai, Bali, Indonesia, and the Maldives at the last minute.

Sanjeev Chhajer, Chairman of GCCI’s tourism committee, added, “Domestic air travel is badly hit due to airport shutdowns. However, international travel is relatively steady, except for a few cancellations by government employees. Turkey and Azerbaijan have seen more cancellations, while others are less affected.”

With no clear timeline on when normalcy will return, the travel industry braces for an extended lull during what was expected to be a high-revenue summer.


Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 9, 2025

As part of Operation Sindoor, commercial flights have been suspended at 27 airports across north, west, and central India. The move has led to widespread disruptions in air travel, with over 430 flights cancelled across carriers like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Air India Express.

To ensure safety, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued new advisories mandating heightened airport security across the country. All passengers are now required to undergo Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC), and visitor access to airport terminals has been suspended until further notice.

Aviation authorities have also instructed airports to ensure that all CCTV systems are fully functional and have directed the deployment of air marshals based on priority and random selection.

Airlines have issued urgent travel advisories.

  • Air India posted: Passengers are advised to arrive at airports at least 3 hours before departure. 

  • SpiceJet posted: Check-in closes 75 minutes prior to flight. and Akasa Air urging passengers early arrival and limiting cabin baggage to one handbag up to 7 kg.

  • All passengers must carry valid government-approved photo ID for airport entry.

List of Airports Closed under Operation Sindoor:

Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar (Rajkot), Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, Bhuj.

According to flight tracking services like Flightradar24, the airspace over India’s western corridor from Kashmir to Gujarat, currently shows minimal civilian air traffic, highlighting the scale of the shutdown. Airports are expected to resume commercial operations by 5:29 AM on Saturday, May 10, but travelers are urged to stay updated through airline channels.

Passengers are strongly advised to recheck flight schedules, plan ahead, and cooperate with the enhanced security procedures to ensure smooth transit during this sensitive period.

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