A group of Indian diaspora in Scotland launched the advocacy group ‘Indo Scot Direct,’ featuring high-profile representatives from major IT companies, tourism operators, educational institutions, and aviation authorities. Their campaign aims to establish direct flight routes between Scotland and India. The official launch event at the Consulate General of India in Scotland on July 24 unveiled a website and survey. United as one team, they work seamlessly from India to Scotland and back. Regardless of where the airline's journey begins, their collective aim is to ensure the successful launch of each flight.
Speaking to Asian Voice, the founders of ‘Indo Scot Direct’, Chetan Sharma owner of a hospitality business and Puneet Diwedi MBE, a civil servant, discuss the inspiration behind the campaign, data/research supporting the flight and much more.
What inspired you to start this campaign, and what specific benefits do you see in establishing direct air travel between India and Scotland?
Chetan: The campaign was inspired by many Indians living in Scotland who recognized significant gaps between the two countries that could be explored for economic gain. This initiative, while community-driven, focuses on business-oriented decisions to ensure its viability. Private businesses are not easily swayed by community campaigns alone, so highlighting economic benefits is crucial. The anticipated benefits include increased tourism, as Indian visitors already spend substantially in Scotland; enhanced business opportunities through smoother trade exchanges; and strengthened cultural exchange, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the nations.
Puneet: For me personally, and I believe for Chetan as well, the campaign for direct flights between Scotland and India is deeply personal. Chetan’s mom lives in the UK, and my mom visits once every 2 to 3 years. The lack of direct flights is a significant challenge, especially for elderly travellers and single parents with children. We started this initiative in 2018, beginning with a petition to the Scottish Parliament, which was rejected as they deemed it outside their jurisdiction. They advised us to contact the aviation team in the Scottish government. In 2019, my friends Samir, Ritesh, and I met with the aviation team, who confirmed that direct flights were a top priority. This encouraged us, knowing the government also supported expanding direct routes. I even handed a letter to Suresh Prabhu, the then Aviation Minister of India, requesting his support. Our campaign faced a major setback due to Covid-19, as airlines suffered significant losses. Despite this, we remain committed to advocating for direct flights, motivated by personal experiences and community support.
What research or data supports the need for direct flights between India and Scotland?
Puneet: The 2022 Scottish census reported 53,000 British/Scottish Indians living in Scotland, with estimates reaching up to 80,000. In the year ending May 2024, over 131,000 passengers travelled between Scottish airports and India, a rise from 116,000 in FY23. Skyscanner searches for flights between Edinburgh and Glasgow to/from India have surged 116% since 2019, reaching about 1.3 million per year. Outside London, Scotland is the largest UK market for Indian visitors. According to averages from 2017-19, 52% of travellers come for leisure, 29% for family visits, 10% for studying, and 8% for business. India was Scotland’s 5th largest export market in 2022, with £600 million in exports and is the largest Scotch whisky market by volume. Air freight demand from Scotland to India in 2023 totaled £340 million. Indirect traffic between India and Scotland surpasses that of China and Scotland, which has direct flights. This underscores the need to strengthen our advocacy for establishing direct routes between Scotland and India.
How has the response been from stakeholders in both India and Scotland, including government officials, businesses, and the general public?
Chetan: Both India and Scotland have shown strong support for the initiative, recognising its potential for mutual economic growth and enhanced diplomatic relations. Increased tourism is seen as a key benefit, which will positively impact the community. The swift response has been remarkable—within just 48 hours, over 2,500 people signed up to support the initiative, reflecting widespread enthusiasm and endorsement.
What message would you like to convey to those who are sceptical about the feasibility or benefits of this initiative?
Chetan: It's important to address sceptics by emphasising that this campaign is unique in its blend of business and community interests. Unlike conventional approaches, which often focus solely on business-to-business or community-to-community decisions, this initiative merges both aspects to benefit a broader audience. While it may not follow traditional methods, the campaign is backed by solid data and aims to enhance practical travel logistics. Its focus on widespread economic and cultural benefits underscores its innovative approach and the significant positive impact it aims to achieve.
Puneet: This initiative is driven by solid research and a genuine need. Both Chetan and I, despite our busy professional lives, have recognised the strong demand for direct flights. This campaign addresses an untapped opportunity for airlines and offers long-term benefits for both India and the UK. It’s not just about convenience but about fostering global connections and enhancing economic and cultural ties. Our data supports the need for direct flights and highlights a valuable market for both Scotland and India. We believe this initiative will open new avenues for growth and connection.
