Rome keen to offer direct air connections with India in 2010

In a bid to improve air connectivity between Indian cities and Rome, Leonardo da Vinci Airport – the international Airport of Rome has approached Indian carriers to start direct services next year. After the withdrawal of Italian flag carrier – Alitalia Airlines from India, there are no direct services offered on India – Italy route. The airport has approached Indian flag carrier – Air India along with private legacy carriers like Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines. At present, only China Airlines (starting December 1, 2009) offers direct services from New Delhi to Rome (thrice a week) through its Taiwan – New Delhi - Rome service.

Divulging further information, a source close to the development said that since the rights to operate on India – Italy sector are open from the Ministry of Civil Aviation of both the countries, it will be convenient for any carrier to start operations of this route. Rome is convinced that there is a business and tourist market in India, which will definitely improve if there are direct air services offered in the market.