Japan Airlines (JAL), the flag carrier of Japan, and India’s largest airline, low-cost carrier IndiGo have announced the launch of their codeshare partnership, starting on December 16. 

In a press statement, the two airlines say that this collaboration will provide customers with enhanced travel options and encourage cultural and business exchanges between Japan and India.

According to the statement, this strategic partnership will enable JAL to expand its connectivity to India initially, while offering IndiGo customers more travel options on JAL’s extensive domestic and international network in later phases. It says that IndiGo, holding over 60 pc market share in India, and JAL will begin codesharing on domestic routes within India that connect to JAL-operated flights to and from Delhi and Bengaluru.

Currently, JAL operates daily services between Tokyo (Haneda) and Delhi, and five times weekly services between Tokyo(Narita) and Bengaluru. Through this new partnership with IndiGo, JAL will be able to establish a comprehensive network across India, connecting to numerous major cities via JAL-operated flights.

Abhijit DasGupta

“We are delighted to introduce new options for connectivity between India and Japan. This codeshare agreement will further strengthen business, trade and tourism related travel between India and Japan. It will also enable passengers of both airlines to explore some of the most culturally rich destinations in India and Japan, known for their history, culinary experiences, nightlife and significant landmarks. At a time when both the countries are strategically working together, this codeshare will add to the strengthening bilateral ties between India and Japan. This expansion is a part of IndiGo’s commitment to delivering on its promise of affordable, on-time, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network,’’ says Abhijit DasGupta, Senior Vice President Network Planning & Revenue Management, IndiGo.

Ross Legget

“We are thrilled to announce our new codeshare partnership with IndiGo, the airline with the largest domestic network in India, renowned for its high-quality service. This partnership will enable travellers between India and Japan to book their flights on a single ticket, enjoying the exceptional services of both IndiGo and Japan Airlines. India has seen remarkable economic growth in recent years, which is leading to a significant increase in air travel demand between Japan and India. Both carriers are excited to embark on this partnership, aiming to further contribute to the market by providing customers with more convenient and seamless travel options. We believe that this collaboration will not only enhance connectivity between the two countries but also foster stronger cultural and economic ties,’’ says Ross Leggett, Managing Executive Officer, Senior Vice President Route Marketing, Japan Airlines.

The statement adds that by leveraging these codeshare connections, customers will have access to 18 destinations in India, offering a wider range of options for tourists, business travellers, and leisure seekers. 

The statement adds that with IndiGo‘s unparalleled network, on-time performance, and exceptional service, JAL is committed to delivering an outstanding travel experience to even more passengers. Both airlines look forward to further expanding their cooperation in the future, offering even greater convenience and travel options.

The airlines say that codeshare would be available for travel starting December 16 and that reservation and ticket sales will be available from December 4.