IAG Cargo is strengthening its presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing air freight markets with the introduction of a third daily service between London Heathrow and Delhi, significantly expanding cargo capacity between the United Kingdom and India.
The new year-round service will commence on 19 September 2026 and will be operated by British Airways using a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, increasing flexibility for exporters and importers moving high-value, time-sensitive cargo between India, the UK and onward global destinations.
With the additional Delhi frequency, IAG Cargo will operate three daily services each to Delhi and Mumbai, alongside increased frequencies to Bengaluru. The expansion raises the carrier’s London Heathrow-India network to 70 weekly flights during the winter schedule, up from 56 weekly services in 2025, reflecting sustained growth in bilateral trade and cargo demand.
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Rising Demand Drives Capacity Expansion
The decision follows strong growth in cargo volumes on the Delhi route. Between January and May 2026, outbound shipments from Delhi increased 12.6%, while inbound volumes grew 14.4% compared with the corresponding period in 2025.
The additional capacity is expected to support increasing demand from manufacturers, exporters and logistics providers seeking reliable access to global markets through London Heathrow, one of the world’s largest international cargo gateways.
Trade Agreement Expected to Boost Cargo Flows
The network expansion comes shortly after the UK-India Free Trade Agreement entered into force on 15 July 2026, a development expected to stimulate bilateral trade and create additional opportunities for air freight operators.
By increasing capacity between the two countries, IAG Cargo is positioning itself to support businesses benefiting from lower trade barriers and expanding commercial ties, while providing onward connectivity through London Heathrow to destinations across Europe, North America, Latin America and the Middle East.
India Remains a Strategic Cargo Market
India continues to be one of the most important markets within IAG Cargo’s global network, supported by a diverse export base that generates consistent demand for air freight services.
Key commodities transported include pharmaceuticals, aerospace components, automotive parts, e-commerce shipments, garments and seasonal perishables—all sectors that rely on fast and dependable international logistics.
According to WorldACD market data referenced by the airline, Indian export volumes increased 5% during the first five months of 2026 compared with the same period last year, underlining the country’s growing role in global supply chains.
Enhanced Global Connectivity
The expanded schedule provides shippers with greater access to IAG Cargo’s international network, enabling faster connections via London Heathrow to major business and consumer markets worldwide.
The increased frequencies are expected to improve shipment flexibility, reduce transit times and provide additional capacity for industries requiring dependable air freight services, particularly those transporting high-value, temperature-sensitive and time-critical cargo.
As trade between India and the UK continues to expand, the enhanced network reinforces IAG Cargo’s long-term commitment to supporting exporters with greater connectivity and increased cargo capacity across one of the world’s most dynamic freight corridors.
