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.