Air India Delhi - Osaka Direct Flights From February 2027

Planning a trip to Japan just got easier for Indian travellers. Air India has announced new non-stop flights between New Delhi and Osaka, offering a direct connection to one of Japan's most exciting destinations from February 2027.

The new service, scheduled to begin on 2 February 2027, will operate four times a week between Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport and Osaka's Kansai International Airport. The launch will make Air India the only airline operating non-stop flights on this route, giving travellers a convenient alternative to itineraries involving stopovers.

The announcement comes as Japan continues to attract Indian visitors interested in its traditional culture, modern cities, distinctive cuisine and seasonal attractions.

Air India Delhi-Osaka Flights: Key Details

Here is a quick look at the important details of Air India's upcoming Japan service.

• Route: New Delhi (DEL) to Osaka (KIX)

• Launch date: 2 February 2027

• Frequency: Four flights per week in each direction

• Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

• Arrival airport: Kansai International Airport, Osaka

• Flight duration: The scheduled timings indicate an overnight journey of approximately 8 hours, subject to the operating schedule.

• Flight numbers: AI360 from Delhi to Osaka and AI359 from Osaka to Delhi

The new route is expected to make travel more convenient for holidaymakers, business travellers and Indians visiting friends or family in Japan.

Delhi-Osaka Flight Schedule and Timings

Air India will operate its Delhi-Osaka service on selected days of the week, with an overnight outbound journey and a daytime return flight.

All timings are local. The outbound flight arrives the following calendar day. Travellers should confirm the latest schedule and availability before booking.

The late-evening departure from Delhi allows passengers to travel overnight and arrive in Osaka the next morning. The return service is scheduled to reach Delhi on the same day, offering a convenient option for those planning their journey back to India.

What Aircraft Will Operate on the New Route?

Air India plans to operate the route using its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.

According to the airline, the aircraft configured for this service will feature 18 full-flat beds in Business Class and 241 seats in Economy Class.

The Dreamliner is designed for long-distance travel, and its cabin configuration gives passengers a choice between premium seating and economy travel. The new service will also provide a non-stop option for passengers who would otherwise consider connecting flights through another Asian or international hub.

Why Is Air India Launching Direct Flights to Osaka?

The new route reflects growing travel demand between India and Japan, supported by tourism, business connections and cultural exchange.

Japan has become an increasingly attractive destination for Indian visitors, offering a mix of historic landmarks, contemporary city life, shopping districts, nature escapes and renowned food experiences.

According to figures cited by Air India from the Japan National Tourism Organization, more than 315,000 Indian visitors travelled to Japan in 2025. This represented an increase of 35% over 2024 and nearly 80% above pre-pandemic levels.

By adding Osaka to its Japanese network, Air India is expanding its options for travellers beyond Tokyo while providing a direct connection to the Kansai region.

Why Osaka Is Worth Visiting

Osaka is known for its lively atmosphere, street food, shopping districts and easy access to several of Japan's best-known cultural destinations.

For first-time visitors, the city can serve as both a destination in its own right and a convenient starting point for a wider Japanese holiday.

1. Explore Osaka's Food Scene

Often associated with the nickname “Japan's kitchen”, Osaka is famous for local favourites such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu. The Dotonbori district is particularly popular for its colourful signs, restaurants and energetic nightlife.

2. Visit Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. Its grounds are especially popular during cherry blossom season, when visitors come to enjoy the surrounding gardens and seasonal scenery.

3. Experience Universal Studios Japan

Travellers visiting with family or friends can add Universal Studios Japan to their itinerary. The theme park features popular attractions and themed experiences, making it a major draw for visitors of different age groups.

4. Take a Day Trip to Kyoto

Kyoto is known for its historic temples, traditional streets, gardens and cultural heritage. Travellers can use Osaka as a base for a day trip or spend a few nights in Kyoto as part of a longer itinerary.

5. Discover Nara

Nara offers historic temples, traditional architecture and Nara Park, where visitors can encounter the city's famous free-roaming deer. It is another popular excursion from Osaka.

With these destinations within reach, the new flight route could appeal particularly to travellers planning a multi-city holiday across western and central Japan.

Plan a Japan Golden Route Trip With the New Flights

One of the most useful features of the new service is the flexibility it offers for multi-city itineraries.

Japan's popular Golden Route commonly includes Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Instead of flying into one city and returning from the same airport, travellers may be able to book an itinerary that begins in Osaka and ends in Tokyo, or the reverse.

For example, visitors could arrive in Osaka, explore Kyoto and Nara, continue towards Tokyo by rail and fly back to India from Tokyo. This approach can reduce the need to retrace the same route simply to catch a return flight.

Air India already operates flights to Tokyo's Haneda Airport, including daily services from Delhi and four weekly services from Mumbai, according to the airline.

Travellers should compare multi-city fares, airport transfers and rail costs before finalising their itinerary.

How to Book the New Delhi-Osaka Flights

Air India has stated that bookings for the new route will be progressively made available through its official website, mobile application, customer contact centre, airport ticketing offices and travel agents.

Before making a reservation, travellers should:

• Check the available dates and fares for both directions.

• Confirm baggage allowances and fare conditions.

• Review Japan's current visa requirements for Indian passport holders.

• Check accommodation availability, particularly during cherry blossom season and major Japanese holidays.

• Consider travel insurance for eligible medical emergencies and travel disruptions.

Because the flights are scheduled to launch in February 2027, availability and fares may vary depending on travel dates and demand.

What Does This Mean for Indian Travellers?

The Delhi-Osaka service gives Indian travellers another direct route into Japan and makes the Kansai region more accessible from India's capital.

For leisure travellers, it could simplify holidays focused on Osaka, Kyoto and Nara. Business travellers may also benefit from a direct connection to a major Japanese metropolitan area, while visitors planning longer trips can consider combining Osaka with Tokyo and other destinations.

The new route also gives travellers more flexibility when comparing flight schedules and planning open-jaw itineraries, where the arrival and departure cities are different.

However, the actual savings in travel time or money will depend on fares, travel dates, onward transport and individual itineraries.

Final Thoughts

Air India's upcoming non-stop Delhi-Osaka flights are a welcome development for Indians planning a trip to Japan. Beginning on 2 February 2027, the four-times-weekly service will provide a direct connection to Osaka and make it easier to explore the Kansai region without an international stopover.

Whether you want to sample Osaka's famous street food, visit Kyoto's temples, discover Nara or plan a longer journey through Japan, the new route offers another option to consider when organising your holiday.

If Japan is on your travel list for 2027, keep an eye on Air India's booking channels, compare your travel dates and start planning your itinerary in advance.