Vietjet commences 737-8 ops in Thailand

Vietjet Thailand has officially introduced its Boeing 737-8 aircraft into commercial service with the airline saying it is “a significant step in the airline group’s long-term strategy to develop a modern, large-scale and market-based standardised fleet”. The inaugural flight operated by the Boeing 737-8 marks the start of Vietjet Thailand’s plan to deploy up to 50 new-generation aircraft, supporting rising travel demand and the continued expansion of the airline’s network across Thailand and the wider region. The Boeing 737-8 incorporates advanced aerodynamics and new-generation LEAP-1B engines, offering full compatibility with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The aircraft delivers up to a 15–20% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and up to 50% lower noise levels compared with previous-generation engines, in compliance with ICAO standards. Its Boeing Sky Interior ensures passengers enjoy a comfortable and engaging journey. In Vietnam, Vietjet continues to operate its Airbus fleet. With extensive experience in next-generation aircraft operations and a strong global partner ecosystem, Vietjet is expanding its international network through major aviation hubs across Asia–Pacific, while steadily progressing toward future routes. Air India resumes non-stop Delhi-Rome route Air India announced the resumption of its non-stop flights between Delhi and Rome (FCO), marking Air India’s return to the Italian capital after nearly six years and further expansion of its growing European network. Air India’s services to Rome had remained suspended since the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning 25 March 2026, Air India will operate four times a week between Delhi and Rome (Leonardo da Vinci International Airport – Fiumicino), just in time for guests travelling from India to plan their springtime travels or summer holidays in Europe. Travellers from Italy will not only have more choice for direct access to the Indian capital, but also for seamless connections to Southeast Asia through Air India’s growing global gateway at Delhi. The service to/from Rome will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays on Air India’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft, featuring 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 seats in Economy Class, combining comfort, convenience and the warmth of Indian hospitality. Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “Connecting India to more of the world remains one of our top priorities. India and Italy share deep-rooted commonalities in culture, business and trade, which makes Rome a natural addition to Air India’s expanding network. This non-stop service not only augments direct connectivity between the two capital cities but also offers travellers from Italy greater choice and seamless onward connections via our Delhi hub to vibrant destinations across the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.” Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer, Aeroporti di Roma, said: “The resumption of Air India’s services to Rome, with direct flights to Delhi, marks a strategically important development that reinforces expectations of continued growth in long-haul markets in 2026. This new service addresses growing demand across key traffic segments, further strengthening economic and cultural ties between Italy and India and broadening opportunities for exchange between the two countries”. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]