Competition heats up on India-Australia route as Qantas flies to Bengaluru

Traffic at 83% of pre-Covid levels, say officials; carriers expect surge ahead of T20 World Cup

Singapore Airlines is the dominant airline on the fast growing India-Australia market, but it is now bracing up for a fresh challenge.

On Wednesday, Qantas launched its four-weekly flights between Sydney and Bengaluru — the first non-stop service between Australia and South India.

The new service, which comes ahead of the T20 world cup in Australia, will offer quicker travel options for flyers from Bengaluru and will help Qantas gain market share.

Qantas Domestic and International Chief Executive Officer Andrew David said the flights will boost tourism and economic relations and open opportunities between Australia and India.

“The addition of