Malaysia Airlines is ramping up its India network to tap into one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world. The airline is adding more flights to important cities, which is part of its promise to link South Asia and Southeast Asia more effectively. Starting in the upcoming winter schedule, the number of weekly flights will rise from 77 to 80, with extra routes going to Ahmedabad (AMD) and Thiruvananthapuram (TRV). Both cities are becoming key travel hubs in India. The extra flights will benefit leisure travelers and business travelers alike, making it easier for everyone to connect through Malaysia.
India is one of the airline’s biggest revenue sources and is key to its long-term success. Right now, Indian routes generate 11% of the airline’s revenue and account for 20% of its total global traffic. This growth shows that more people want to fly between India and Malaysia and connect to the wider South and Southeast Asia region.
Enhanced Connectivity Between Kuala Lumpur and India
Malaysia Airlines just boosted travel choices between Kuala Lumpur—its main gateway—and India’s fast-growing cities. Extra flights have now been added to Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram, giving passengers more options and meeting rising demand from both leisure and business travelers.
Ahmedabad stands out as a key economic and cultural hub, making it a magnet for business tourism. Executives and entrepreneurs from Gujarat often link up with partners across Southeast Asia, and more flights will make those trips simpler. On the other hand, Thiruvananthapuram and the surrounding Kerala region lure visitors with stunning coastlines, lush backwaters, and rich cultural experiences. The new schedules will offer a smoother, more flexible way for tourists and businesspeople alike to reach these important destinations.
The Impact on Indian Tourism and Economy
New flights between Malaysia and India are making it easier for more travelers to explore these two vibrant regions, and both sides are already reaping the rewards. Indian travelers are increasingly curious about Malaysia’s colorful culture, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests. Cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang are rising stars on Indian vacation checklists, and the chance to enjoy spicy street food, bargain at bustling markets, and stay in modern hotels is making the country popular with families and solo explorers alike.
More flights mean more seats, and more seats mean more room for both vacationers and business travelers. Beyond sightseeing, the links between India and Malaysia are boosting trade and commerce, too. India’s growing middle class, with its appetite for new experiences and shopping, is the perfect fuel for the travel boom. Airlines like Malaysia Airlines are well-positioned to meet that demand, while the entire South and Southeast Asian travel network gets stronger with every new route.
Strengthening the Partnership with IndiGo
Malaysia Airlines is ramping up service between our hub cities and India while also deepening our partnership with IndiGo (6E), the largest low-cost carrier in the country. Together we will boost seamless travel between Southeast Asia and India and ensure smoother onward connections for our guests. Travelers leaving India can now transfer quickly onto Malaysia Airlines flights heading to Australia, Europe, and cities across the Asia-Pacific, all on a single ticket.
By teaming with IndiGo, we’re unlocking deeper reach in the Indian market. IndiGo already serves every major market and many regional cities, so we gain wide national coverage. Passengers can hop between the breadth of India and Malaysia and then explore our extended network. Flexibility and choice are boosted, with many more travel times, fare ranges, and combined options.
Tourism Growth and Economic Benefits
The new services and our tie-up with IndiGo will also fuel growth for both nations. India is always a top source market for travel, and now with more flights, we can share Malaysia’s cultural, natural, and urban treasures with even more visitors. Increased Indian arrivals mean more spending on hotels, shopping, and transport, which helps our local economies and the Malaysia national tourism strategy.
Malaysia Airlines is broadening its India flight network to boost tourism and business travel to and from Malaysia. New routes to Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram make it easier for global travelers to see Malaysia as a lively hub for culture, tourism, and commerce.
Strengthening the Region’s Tourism Standing
More flights between India and Malaysia also help Malaysia stay on top in the Southeast Asian tourism game. While neighboring markets like Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam keep upgrading hotels, attractions, and airports, Malaysia can keep the lead by adding more flights, raising service standards, and teaming up with other global airlines.
The added services can power Malaysia’s tourism growth. Indian travelers are discovering the range of experiences Malaysia offers, from jungle adventures in Borneo to the sandy shores of Langkawi. With extra flight seats, travelers from India can find the right flight times and prices to explore Malaysia’s many attractions.
Malaysia Airlines is taking a major step forward in its partnership with IndiGo by adding more flights between Malaysia and India. This expansion is a big win in the airline’s quest to grow and enhance its service. With both nations enjoying rising economies and booming travel interest, aviation will keep driving shared growth and development.
Travelers heading between India and Malaysia can easily check the latest schedules, fares, and city links on the Malaysia Airlines or IndiGo web pages. The extra flights mean smoother connections, giving holidaymakers the chance to dive into both nations’ colorful cultures, breathtaking scenery, and endless attractions.
Conclusion
The new services to Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram from Malaysia Airlines and IndiGo will spark more tourism, business trips, and cultural exchange between the two countries. South and Southeast Asia’s need for better connectivity is strong, and this expansion settles the region firmly on the global travel map. With easier access, more visitors can enjoy everything Malaysia and India have to offer, both for work and for play. The air travel future in Southeast Asia is looking bright, with more choices for crossing borders and making the most of business and leisure adventures.
The USA, a top global travel destination, is experiencing an unexpected dip in international visitors, with a notable decline in travellers from India. According to the US Commerce Department’s National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO), June 2025 marked a break in a decades-long trend where every June since 2001, except during the COVID-19 period, saw an increase in visitors compared to the previous year.
This year, however, Indian visitor numbers dropped to 2,10,000 in June 2025, an 8% decrease from 2,30,000 in June 2024. Data from July 2025 shows a further 5.5% decline compared to July 2024.
This downturn is part of a broader decline in international tourism to the US. Times of India reported that NTTO data indicates a 6.2% drop in total non-US resident international visitors in June 2025 compared to June 2024, with declines of 7% in May, 8% in March, and 1.9% in February. January and April were exceptions, with increases of 4.7% and 1.3%, respectively.
India remains the fourth-largest source market for US visitors, with the UK leading as the top overseas source, followed by India. Mexico and Canada, benefiting from land borders, are the top two markets, while Brazil ranks fifth.
The decline in Indian visitors is particularly evident among students. A leading travel agent told The Times of India, “We are seeing a very visible impact on the student segment this year due to the delay in visa issuance, even after people securing college admission.” These delays are disrupting travel plans for Indian students, a significant portion of the US visitor demographic. While multiple factors may contribute to the decline, stricter visa policies under US President Donald Trump’s second term are likely playing a role.
Mumbai, every year faces challenges during the monsoons. And this year too, the state is experiencing heavy rainfalls, causing waterlogging, traffic, and travel delays. The IMD forecasts continued heavy spells over the next few days so it is suggested to avoid travel through flooded regions.
