Lufthansa expands partnership with Air India, along with the other members of the Lufthansa group. On February 17, 2026, Lufthansa Group and Air India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that lays the groundwork for a deeper strategic partnership. The MoU also contemplates a planned Joint Business Agreement (JBA) to expand air service between Europe and India. The framework is designed to capitalize on the recently completed EU–India trade agreement and India’s growing aviation market, one of the fastest-growing globally. This collaboration builds on existing ties, including Star Alliance membership. The two airlines plan to expand on long-standing codeshare cooperation and seeks to enhance the overall passenger experience.
Strategic Alliance
This next phase of cooperation formalizes a closer commercial relationship between the Lufthansa Group airlines (including Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and ITA Airways) and Air India and Air India Express. The MoU outlines intentions for a JBA that would go beyond current codeshares. It would include joint scheduling, sales and marketing alignment, and improved connectivity. Under the proposal, the airlines would cover the core markets in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, and India. Regulatory and antitrust approvals are still required before the full partnership can launch.
Expanded Cooperation
Under the emerging deal, the airlines aim to:
- Better align flight schedules and route networks for smoother connections.
- Jointly market flights and coordinate sales and distribution.
- Explore collaboration on frequent-flyer programs, IT systems, and customer service standards.
Current codeshare activity spans approximately 145+ routes connecting 15 Indian cities with 29 European points.
India stands as one of the top priorities for the Lufthansa Group, rapidly becoming its second-largest premium long-haul market after the U.S. The enhanced partnership is timed to leverage both market dynamics and stronger economic ties between India and the European Union.
Conrado’s Thoughts
The expanded strategic partnership between the Lufthansa Group and Air India signals a new chapter in Europe–India aviation cooperation. By moving toward a joint business model and deeper commercial integration, both carriers are positioning themselves to capture rising demand, offer more seamless travel experiences, and strengthen long-term network connectivity across one of the world’s most dynamic travel corridors.
