Air India launched its first non-stop flight, the Dreamliner B-787, to Stockholm, Sweden, from Delhi on today. With an all-female crew on board, the cockpit was under the control of Capt. Nivedita Bhasin. “We are confident that Air India’s first foray to Scandinavia would add new dimensions to trade, commerce and tourism between the two countries – India & Sweden,” Ashwani Lohani, Chairman, Air India said.
The Dreamliner will fly thrice a week, every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and leave Delhi at 14.50 hours and reach Stockholm at 18.40. The return flight will leave Stockholm at 20:40 hours and reach Delhi at 07:20 hours next day.
With an increase of passenger volume between India and Sweden by 50 per cent in three years, the direct flight is likely to further bolster the growing relationship between India and Sweden. The flying time of passengers will be reduced by at least 2 hours.
Eminent Olympian and Bronze Medal Winner Gagan Narang and Ace Cricketer Harbhajan Singh were few lucky passenger who boarded AI first Direct flight to Stockholm, Sweden
The launch event, including lighting of lamp, cake and ribbon cutting ceremonies, was held at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi in the presence of Air India Chairman Ashwani Lohani and Chargé d’Affaires of Embassy of Sweden, Gautam Bhattacharyya.
Gautam Bhattacharyya, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Sweden said, “The direct connection will not only strengthen trade between India and Sweden but also create more business, tourism and educational opportunities.”
Ewa Lagerqvist, CEO, Visit Sweden said, “There is a growing interest from India in Sweden as a tourist and business destination.
