Emirates Seeks Expansion of India-UAE Flight Quota as Demand Soars

Emirates confirmed on 8 February 2026 that it is in advanced talks with Indian authorities to raise the long-standing cap on India-UAE flight seats. The airline argues that the current 66,000-seat limit no longer reflects demand, forcing high fares and lost business opportunities. Any quota increase would lower costs for UAE-based firms, widen key Indian gateways, and support mobility programmes that rely on frequent shuttles between the two countries.