The first Easy Connect service will begin from Varanasi on 25 June 2026. Air India said the system will be rolled out in phases across multiple cities over the coming months to expand seamless international connectivity from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

How the hub-and-spoke model works

Under the model, 'spoke' cities such as Varanasi are linked to larger 'hub' airports like Delhi, from where passengers can connect to Air India's international network. The structure is designed to enable travellers from non-metro cities to reach multiple overseas destinations through a single hub with coordinated schedules and streamlined transfers.

For passengers, the new process will mean:

• Through check-in to the final destination: Travellers departing from cities such as Varanasi can check in at their origin airport for their entire journey, without having to collect and re-check baggage at the hub airport.
• Immigration at the origin airport: International immigration procedures will be completed before departure from the originating city, eliminating the need to go through immigration at the hub.
• Domestic transit, international journey: Passengers arriving at hub airports such as Delhi will continue their onward journey as international transit travellers, allowing for faster and more efficient connections.
• Familiar transit experience within India: Travellers can connect through Indian airports instead of navigating transit procedures at overseas hubs, avoiding the unfamiliar processes often associated with foreign airport transfers.

P. Balaji, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance & Corporate Affairs, Air India, said: “The successful implementation of the hub-and-spoke model requires close coordination across airlines, airports, and multiple government agencies, and we are grateful for the strong collaboration that has enabled this rollout.”

“Air India is committed to continuing to work closely with all stakeholders across the industry and the Government of India as we expand this model to more cities and phases. Together, we are building a more efficient, integrated, and globally competitive aviation ecosystem for India.”

First Easy Connect flights from Varanasi

The designated Easy Connect service between Varanasi and Delhi will operate daily as flight AI1111. Scheduled to connect within four hours of arriving in Delhi, the service will provide onward access to 17 international destinations, including London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Milan, Rome, Zurich, Manila, Singapore, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Riyadh and Dubai, among others.

Future Easy Connect services from other spoke cities will carry flight numbers in the AI11XX series, creating a distinct identity for the network.

Air India said the rollout will gradually expand to several additional cities in the months ahead as the hub-and-spoke model is introduced more widely.

Bookings for Easy Connect flights are now open through all Air India sales channels, including its website, mobile app, contact centre and travel agents.