Direct flights to India? Budapest is gearing up for something big
India is widely regarded as one of the world’s most exciting travel destinations, rich in cultural and natural treasures. Yet currently, it can only be accessed from Hungary via connecting flights. Industry professionals agree: the time has come for a direct air connection between Budapest and a major Indian city.
Surging Demand for India Flights
At a professional gathering held at Karol Bagh Restaurant in Budapest, representatives from Hungarian travel agencies had the chance to experience India’s tourism offerings firsthand, according to Turizmus.com. At the event, Praveen Kumar, Charge d’Affaires and Rajeev Kumar, Second Secretary (Commerce), from the Indian Embassy emphasised that India is expecting nearly 20 million international visitors this year, with a strong focus on sustainable tourism and expanding regional airports.
The travel industry says India’s “thousand faces”—from vibrant festivals to spiritual pilgrimage sites—are becoming increasingly attractive to Hungarian tourists. Despite the growing interest, the lack of a direct flight remains a significant barrier.
Business and Tourism Opportunities
In March, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó announced in New Delhi that Wizz Air plans to launch a daily direct flight between Budapest and Mumbai later this year. A Budapest–New Delhi route is also under consideration. The minister stressed that a nonstop connection would provide a major boost to commercial, educational, diplomatic, and tourism partnerships.
As the world’s most populous country and one of its fastest-growing economies, India offers not only tourism potential but significant business opportunities. A direct route could greatly benefit business travelers by enhancing bilateral trade, encouraging investment, and strengthening diplomatic ties.
Current Options and Limitations
Currently, Hungarian travelers must rely on connecting flights offered by several airlines: Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, Emirates through Dubai, and IndiGo via Mumbai or Delhi to various destinations in India. While these are viable alternatives, experts argue that a direct flight would save time and considerable expenses—while also making Hungary more appealing to Indian tourists.
One obstacle is the existing bilateral aviation agreements, which currently limit the number of flights that can be operated. However, Wizz Air’s announcement and ongoing government negotiations offer hope that the situation may soon change.
Momentum Behind Strengthening Ties
A direct Budapest–India flight wouldn’t just broaden travel options; it would also offer strategic advantages. Increased tourism, booming business activity, and stronger diplomatic relationships could all help position Hungary as a key player in connecting South Asia and Europe.
As professionals across the board put it: the demand is there—now we’re just waiting for implementation.
Read also:
- Incredible India meets Hungary: Embassy event showcases tourism opportunities and direct flights
- Wizz Air eyes new Middle East and India routes from Central Europe
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