NEW DELHI— Air India Express (IX) is preparing to strengthen its international network by evaluating the launch of nonstop flights to Tbilisi, Georgia, during the upcoming winter schedule.
If introduced, the new service would mark the Tata Group-owned carrier’s first entry into Europe and expand its presence beyond its established markets in the Gulf and Southeast Asia.
The proposed expansion comes as Air India Express (IX) continues its rapid network growth following its integration into the Tata Group.
Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) is being assessed as the airline’s potential gateway into Eastern Europe, complementing its growing short- and medium-haul international operations.
Air India Express Eyes Europe Expansion
Air India Express is actively exploring the launch of direct flights to Georgia as part of a broader strategy to diversify its international network.
The airline has traditionally focused on destinations across the Gulf and Southeast Asia, but Eastern Europe is now emerging as a potential new growth region.
The move reflects the carrier’s long-term objective of building one of India’s largest short-haul international networks while targeting underserved leisure and visiting-friends-and-relatives markets.
Although the airline has not officially confirmed the plan, industry sources indicate that Georgia is under serious consideration for the upcoming winter season.
The airline has also restored nearly 80% of its West Asia operations and currently serves 13 destinations across the Gulf, where it remains one of the leading carriers connecting India with the region.
Meanwhile, Southeast Asia continues to receive significant attention. Following recent network additions to Bangkok and Phuket, Air India Express is evaluating further expansion in Malaysia to strengthen connectivity across the region.
Network Growth Across Markets
The airline currently operates a network covering 43 domestic and 16 international destinations, linking cities across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and West Asia. The possible addition of Georgia would further diversify its international footprint and create new travel options for passengers, The Hindu Business Line reported.
Domestically, Air India Express is also planning to add at least five new stations in 2026 as it expands connectivity across India. The airline’s strategy emphasizes disciplined growth supported by fleet expansion while maintaining operational reliability and service consistency.
Air India Express recently crossed the milestone of operating more than 100 aircraft, with nearly two-thirds of its fleet consisting of new-generation airplanes.
Since joining the Tata Group in 2022, the carrier has nearly doubled its capacity and tripled its market share, while passenger traffic has increased by more than 25% year over year.
Future Strategy Through Expansion
Beyond network expansion, Air India Express continues to strengthen its market position through product improvements and operational development.
The airline recently earned a 4-Star Skytrax rating during its first audit, highlighting the progress made since its transformation under Tata Group ownership.
Originally established as a regional airline based in Kochi, the carrier has evolved into a nationwide and international operator serving a rapidly expanding customer base.
Its value-focused model is designed to bridge the gap between traditional low-cost airlines and full-service carriers by offering additional flexibility while maintaining competitive fares.
Looking ahead, Air India Express aims to capture a 25% share of India’s domestic aviation market by FY31.
The airline plans to support that ambition with a fleet of approximately 300 aircraft, representing a threefold increase from its current scale and positioning it for sustained growth across domestic and international markets.
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