In a move set to strengthen air connectivity between India and Australia, Qantas Airways has announced the return of its nonstop flights between Delhi and Melbourne, beginning October 27, 2025. The service will operate three times a week through March 28, 2026, catering to strong travel demand during the busy holiday and cricket season.
The Australian flag carrier, which had suspended the route in June 2025, will deploy its Airbus A330-200 aircraft on the sector, featuring both Business and Economy Class cabins. The reinstated connection is expected to add over 1,300 seats per week — amounting to more than 30,000 additional seats over the five-month operational period — between the Indian capital and Australia’s cultural hub.
“We’re delighted to bring back our nonstop connection between Delhi and Melbourne, just in time for the busy travel season,” said Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International. “Flying direct significantly reduces travel time to Australia, and these new flights are perfectly suited for Indian fans attending major cricket events in Melbourne, including the T20 series in late October, The Ashes, and the Big Bash League later in the year.”
Strengthening the India–Australia Travel Corridor
The resumption of the Delhi–Melbourne route marks an important milestone for Qantas, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to one of its fastest-growing international markets. With tourism, education, and business travel between the two nations on a steady rise, the direct flights offer a convenient and time-saving option for travellers.
For Indian passengers, the new schedule offers greater accessibility not just to Melbourne, but also to Qantas’ extensive domestic network across Australia, including popular destinations such as Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth.
The service also complements Qantas’ ongoing efforts to expand its presence in India. The airline recently opened new offices in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, aimed at strengthening customer service, sales operations, and trade partnerships in the region.
A Boost for Tourism and Trade
The Delhi–Melbourne route is expected to further support bilateral tourism and business ties between India and Australia — a relationship that continues to deepen post-pandemic. Melbourne, home to a vibrant Indian community and a host of cultural and sporting events, remains a top destination for Indian travellers.
Australia, in turn, has witnessed a steady growth in inbound tourism from India, with visitors drawn to its diverse landscapes, thriving cities, and shared passion for cricket — a cultural connection that often brings the two nations together.
The Return of Nonstop Convenience
The restoration of nonstop flights is particularly significant for travellers seeking shorter journey times and seamless connections. Before the relaunch, passengers travelling between Delhi and Melbourne often relied on connecting services via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Dubai.
With Qantas’ direct flights, the total travel time is reduced by several hours, offering greater comfort and convenience for both leisure and business travellers.
As global travel rebounds, the return of Qantas’ Delhi–Melbourne route highlights the growing importance of India in the airline’s international network — and reaffirms Australia’s enduring appeal as a destination of choice for Indian travellers.
When the first flight takes off this October, it will not just bridge two cities — but rekindle a connection between two nations united by cricket, culture, and a shared spirit of travel.
