India has closed its borders and suspended international flights since 23 March. But since 16 July, it has authorised certain routes under an agreement between the two countries. "air bubbles" with Germany, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and France. These air corridors are initially in force from 22 July to 31 August.
The agreement means that Air India will operate around 222 flights to the United States, France and Germany between 22 July and 31 August. In Europe, the Indian airline offers four weekly frequencies to Frankfurt and three weekly frequencies to Paris. from Delhi.
Air France is operating 28 flights to Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai until 1 August, while Lufthansa is offering services to Mumbai. However, the authorities are expected to extend these air corridors from month to month, or even from week to week. The Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puria, has indicated that other "air bubbles" are being studied. These include the United Kingdom and Canada.
However, access to these flights remains restricted. Travellers with a tourist visa are excluded. However, permanent residents, European citizens and Indians stranded by the pandemic are eligible. Foreign businessmen are also permitted on a business visa. However, those with a valid multi-entry visa must have it revalidated by the Indian embassy in France.
All passengers must undergo a rapid covid-19 test before departure.said the Indian Embassy in France. Only those tested 'negative' will be allowed to board the plane.
Before booking a ticket, however, it is still advisable to check the restrictions in force. The "air bubbles" are likely to last until regular flights resume in a post-pandemic world.
India has pursued a cautious policy to reopen these skies. Domestic routes only resumed on 25 May. But they are subject to an operating gauge set at 45% of the number of flights operated before the epidemic.
