Wed Oct 08 16:34:06 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the information, written from an Indian perspective, and based on the provided text:

**India-UK Trade Soars as British Airways Expands Flights Following Landmark FTA**

**NEW DELHI – October 8, 2025 -** The India-UK economic partnership continues to strengthen following the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in July, with British Airways announcing a significant expansion of its flight operations to India. The announcement coincided with a two-day visit by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who arrived in Delhi on a chartered flight accompanied by 130 top British CEOs and senior government ministers.

As a symbol of approaching Diwali, Prime Minister Starmer also lit a candle at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai.

British Airways revealed plans for a third daily flight between London Heathrow and Delhi starting next year, signaling its confidence in growing trade between the two nations. The airline currently operates 56 weekly flights connecting London with Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, and has expressed interest in further expansion within the Indian market.

“As our landmark trade deal paves the way for new opportunities for businesses, our national flag carrier will play a critical role in strengthening trade links with India, boosting U.K. growth and helping deliver on our Plan for Change,” U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a press statement issued by British Airways.

Sean Doyle, Chairman and Chief Executive of British Airways, emphasized the strategic importance of the Indian market, noting that the FTA is “very good news” for their business. He also highlighted the airline’s role in connecting India to the U.S. and other global markets via its extensive North Atlantic network.

The move by British Airways is complemented by increased activity from Indian carriers. Air India already operates 49 weekly flights to London Heathrow, with additional services from London Gatwick and Birmingham. Furthermore, IndiGo entered the UK market in July with flights to Manchester and has announced daily flights to London Heathrow from Mumbai starting October 26th, further enhancing connectivity.

According to a UK government press release, the expansion of flight networks between the two countries is projected to generate over £50 million in annual exports, £25 million in tourism income, and create 450 new jobs, while stimulating productivity and research collaboration. This enhanced connectivity is expected to provide a significant boost to both economies and further solidify the India-UK partnership.

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