India and Qatar have signed a landmark agreement on the establishment of a Bubble arrangement, which allows both countries to operate airlines between them, enabling greater connectivity and further strengthening the ties between the two nations.
This agreement, which was signed on December 8th, 2020, takes into account the COVID-19 pandemic and provides for the establishment of separate bilateral air bubbles for the operation of commercial passenger flights between the two countries.
Under the terms of the agreement, Air India will operate flights between Delhi and Doha, while Qatar Airways will operate flights between Doha and 13 destinations in India, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
The establishment of this arrangement is a significant development, not only for the two countries but for the aviation industry as a whole. It allows for the resumption of air travel between India and Qatar, which had been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and will provide a much-needed boost to the aviation sector in both countries.
It also presents an opportunity for Indian airlines to expand their operations in the Gulf region, which is a major market for air travel. The agreement allows them to operate flights to other destinations in the region via Qatar, providing greater connectivity and convenience for passengers.
Additionally, the agreement is expected to boost trade and investment between India and Qatar. Qatar is a major supplier of liquefied natural gas to India, and the establishment of the air bubble arrangement is expected to facilitate the movement of people and goods between the two countries.
The establishment of air bubbles has become a trend during the pandemic, and it has been a key factor in the resumption of international travel. Air bubbles allow for the resumption of air travel between two countries while ensuring that strict safety protocols are observed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
In conclusion, the establishment of the air bubble arrangement between India and Qatar is a significant development that provides greater connectivity and convenience for passengers, a boost to the aviation industry in both countries, and an opportunity for Indian airlines to expand their operations in the Gulf region. It is expected to strengthen the ties between the two nations and boost trade and investment.