Introduction:
Vande Bharat flights, also known as Air India’s Vande Bharat Mission flights, have been operating since May 2020 to repatriate Indian citizens and overseas citizens of India (OCIs) from various countries, including Singapore. These flights have played a crucial role in facilitating the safe return of thousands of people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Frequency and Destinations:
As of September 2023, Air India operates regular Vande Bharat flights from Singapore to various destinations in India, including:
- Chennai (MA)
- Delhi (DEL)
- Hyderabad (HYD)
- Kannur (CNN)
- Kochi (COK)
- Mumbai (BOM)
- Thiruvananthapuram (TRV)
The frequency of these flights varies depending on the destination and demand. Passengers are advised to check with Air India for the latest flight schedules.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for Vande Bharat flights from Singapore to India, passengers must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an Indian passport or OCI card
- Be stranded in Singapore due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Have registered with the Indian Embassy or Consulate in Singapore
Booking and Costs:
Vande Bharat flights can be booked through Air India’s website or authorized travel agents. The cost of tickets varies depending on the destination, travel class, and availability. According to the Air India website, the following are the approximate one-way fares from Singapore to different destinations in India (as of September 2023):
| Destination | Economy Class | Business Class |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai (MA) | SGD 250-400 | SGD 500-800 |
| Delhi (DEL) | SGD 300-500 | SGD 600-900 |
| Hyderabad (HYD) | SGD 350-550 | SGD 700-1000 |
| Kannur (CNN) | SGD 320-520 | SGD 650-950 |
| Kochi (COK) | SGD 330-530 | SGD 680-980 |
| Mumbai (BOM) | SGD 340-540 | SGD 700-1000 |
| Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) | SGD 350-550 | SGD 720-1020 |
Baggage Allowance:
Passengers are allowed to check in 40 kg of baggage and carry on 7 kg of hand luggage on Vande Bharat flights. Excess baggage charges may apply.
In-Flight Services:
Vande Bharat flights offer a range of in-flight services, including:
- Complimentary meals and beverages
- In-flight entertainment
- Duty-free shopping
COVID-19 Protocols:
Passengers are required to follow all applicable COVID-19 protocols, including:
- Wearing face masks throughout the flight
- Maintaining social distancing
- Presenting a negative COVID-19 test report (if required by the destination country)
Recent Developments:
In recent months, Air India has announced the following developments related to Vande Bharat flights from Singapore to India:
- Increased the frequency of flights from Singapore to various destinations in India
- Extended the validity of Vande Bharat flights until March 2024
- Implemented additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers during the pandemic
Conclusion:
Vande Bharat flights have played an indispensable role in facilitating the safe return of Indian citizens and OCIs from Singapore during the COVID-19 pandemic. With regular flights, reasonable fares, and a commitment to safety, Air India continues to provide a valuable service to passengers. As the pandemic situation evolves, Vande Bharat flights are likely to continue operating in the coming months, providing convenient and affordable travel options for passengers.
