
GAYA: The return of Air India’s direct flight route between Gaya and Delhi, starting from September 1, 2025, promises to revolutionise travel for passengers and boost the local economy.
In a major development for air travel and regional connectivity, Gaya Airport is set to welcome back Air India after a four-year gap. The airline will resume its direct flight service between Gaya and Delhi, beginning on September 1, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the region’s aviation sector.
This long-awaited service, which was suspended in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will come as a relief to passengers who have long relied on limited options, with only Indigo flights operating on this route. The resumption of Air India flights is expected to ease seat shortages, stabilize fares, and provide much-needed competition in the market.
The move is expected to have far-reaching benefits for both tourism and business in Gaya, particularly in Bodh Gaya, a key destination for both domestic and international tourists. Direct connectivity to Delhi will not only save valuable travel time but also enhance comfort and convenience, providing a much-needed boost to the region’s tourism industry.
Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, who played a key role in securing the restart of the service, expressed his delight on Twitter, calling it “a necessary step for public convenience.” Manjhi’s intervention followed a series of inspections by Air India officials earlier this year, ultimately leading to the decision to relaunch the route.
Beyond tourism, the new flight service will cater to a growing demand from business and education sectors, with many traveling between Gaya and Delhi for work and study purposes. The return of Air India is set to offer passengers more options and competitive fares.
However, the call for further improvements in connectivity does not end here. Local businessmen and tour operators are advocating for additional direct flights connecting Gaya with other major cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. They argue that better connectivity would not only enhance regional business prospects but also stimulate the local economy and promote tourism.
With the relaunch of the Gaya-Delhi route, the region’s air travel landscape is poised for transformation, offering both convenience and economic promise for years to come.