Philadelphia Airport Sets Sights on Direct Flights to India, Boosts Global Connectivity

Philadelphia Airport Sets Sights on Direct Flights to India, Boosts Global Connectivity

By Author

Published on March 3, 2024

In a strategic move to enhance global connectivity, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is actively working towards establishing direct flights to India, a development that underscores the airport's ambitious growth plans. With a record-breaking passenger volume of 28.1 million in 2023, reflecting a significant 12.6% increase from the previous year, PHL is on an upward trajectory, buoyed by the addition of new international and domestic routes.

Edgar Antistenes Vesga-Arias, Director of Air Service Development and Cargo Services at PHL, shared insights into the airport's expansion efforts and its focus on the Indian market in an exclusive interview with ET TravelWorld. Despite the absence of direct flights, PHL's connectivity with India remains strong, with over 190,000 passengers travelling between the regions in 2023. However, only 34% utilised PHL's services, highlighting the potential for direct connections.

Philadelphia's appeal to the Indian market is significant, attributed to its prominence in education and medicine, drawing a considerable number of international students and visitors. To enhance connectivity, PHL is leveraging major connecting points like Doha, London, and Frankfurt, and has introduced an incentives program to encourage airlines to establish routes to unserved and underserved destinations, including India.

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Vesga emphasised the economic impact of the Indian market, noting that India is Philadelphia’s 3rd largest market for direct visitor spending. The anticipated increase in visitation from India by 26.4% over the next five years underscores the importance of this market. In 2023, there were 66,422 total annual passengers travelling between PHL and India, with a significant portion originating from Philadelphia.

Looking ahead, PHL is committed to developing the Indian market through proactive collaborations and sustainability measures. The airport's goal to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050 and Zero Waste by 2035 highlights its dedication to environmental stewardship. Initiatives such as emissions tracking, electrification of ground support equipment, and sustainable design requirements for capital projects are at the forefront of PHL's sustainability efforts.

Marketing campaigns tailored to Indian travellers and the PHL Air Service Incentive Program, offering landing fee waivers and inclusion in destination marketing efforts, are part of the strategy to attract more airlines and develop new routes.

Philadelphia International Airport's drive to establish direct flights with India and its comprehensive growth and sustainability plans position it as a key player in facilitating seamless travel experiences and promoting economic development in the region.


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.


TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 28, 2025

TV9 Network has partnered with SKIL Corporate Travel, India’s leading corporate travel and event management firm, as the Official Travel Partner for the News9 Global Summit, UAE Edition. Organised by News9 and promoted by TV9 Network, this summit marked its second international edition, bringing together a distinguished group of Indian policymakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and global thought leaders to chart India’s growing global influence.

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As the Official Travel Partner, SKIL Corporate Travel seamlessly managed end-to-end logistics for all attending delegates and speakers — covering international and domestic flights, local transportation, and comprehensive on-ground support throughout the summit.

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Elevating its engagement beyond operational support, Mr. Shylender Jindal, Managing Director, SKIL Group, also featured as a distinguished speaker at the Summit. He contributed to the headline panel titled "Delhi to Dubai: Building the Startup Corridor," offering insights on the future of mobility, cross-border innovation, and India’s dynamic role in shaping global entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Vikash Kejriwal, CEO, SKIL Group, said,

"We are honoured to partner with TV9 for this international edition of the News9 Global Summit. As India steps into its role as a global business powerhouse, we are proud to support the journeys that move those ideas forward. Our experience in handling high-stakes, cross-border corporate travel makes this a natural and meaningful collaboration."

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With decades of experience in managing CXO delegations, enterprise mobility, and large-scale international conferences, SKIL Corporate Travel continues to stand out as a trusted name in premium corporate travel services, seamlessly blending efficiency with excellence across sectors and destinations.


Soak in the Monsoon Magic at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

Soak in the Monsoon Magic at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 26, 2025

As the monsoon paints Mahabaleshwar in shades of green and mist, Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar transforms into the perfect retreat for those seeking a soulful pause. Perched above the spectacular Lingmala Waterfalls and overlooking the serene Venna River, this scenic escape in the Sahyadris invites guests to slow down, breathe deep, and truly savour the beauty of the season.

Every corner of the property offers postcard-perfect views—from rolling clouds floating past your balcony to lush hills bathed in mist. Whether you're sipping on a warm cup of tea or soaking in a private plunge pool, it's an experience designed to bring calm and clarity.

The resort offers a range of thoughtfully curated accommodations—from valley-view garden rooms to mountain-facing balconies and intimate private villas with personal plunge pools, each crafted to maximise comfort and tranquillity.

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Adding more delight to the stay is the Monsoon Gateway Offer, a seasonal package designed to elevate the experience with a range of inclusions:

  • Daily buffet breakfast

  • Dinner at the signature Berry Library

  • One-time complimentary minibar

  • 15% off on food and soft beverages

  • Evening tea/coffee service between 4–5 PM

  • A complimentary bottle of house wine on arrival

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Just minutes from popular points like Wilson Point and Kate’s Point, guests can also enjoy nature walks and short excursions between long spells of leisure and indulgence.

Known for its warm hospitality, personalized service, and flavour-rich cuisine, Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar makes a strong case for the perfect monsoon escape—be it a romantic retreat, family break, or quick getaway with friends.

Take the scenic route this season—let the hills, waterfalls, and warm comforts of Marriott’s hospitality remind you to slow down and cherish life’s simpler joys.

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