Air India's new 'Easy Connect' from Varanasi smooths the way for international journeys

International travel from Varanasi is set to get noticeably smoother. From June 25, Air India launches its "Easy Connect" service on the Varanasi-Delhi route, a hub-and-spoke model built to take the hassle out of connecting flights for travellers from smaller cities. Under the new system, passengers flying out of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport can complete check-in, baggage drop and immigration formalities in Varanasi itself. Their bags are tagged through to the final destination and transferred automatically in Delhi, so there is no need to collect luggage, re-check it, or queue again for immigration at the connecting hub. A single boarding pass carries them through. Delhi acts as the gateway, offering onward connections to a wide range of international cities. For Varanasi's many residents, students and pilgrims who travel abroad - and for inbound visitors heading home - the change means fewer steps, less transit stress and a more predictable journey. Air India has said Varanasi is among the first cities to get the service, with more to follow in the months ahead. It is a welcome upgrade for a city whose airport has steadily grown its national and international footprint.

Compiled by HelloBanaras from public sources: Outlook Traveller · Indian Eagle