September 2025 is a landmark month for global air travel. Specifically, numerous airlines are launching new routes and expanding their networks across continents. These expansions create fresh connections that capitalize on a resurgence in travel demand.

New Gateways Between Europe and Asia

A major theme this month is the strengthening of ties between Europe and Asia. Consequently, several carriers are introducing key services.

• Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), for instance, is entering the South Korean market. On September 12, the airline will launch its first direct service from Copenhagen to Seoul.

• In addition, Dutch carrier KLM is boosting its presence in India. It is adding a new route from Amsterdam to Hyderabad, which starts on September 2.

• Meanwhile, Icelandair is expanding eastward. The airline is launching a new service from Reykjavik to Istanbul, Turkey, beginning September 5.

• Similarly, China Eastern Airlines is growing its European footprint. The airline will offer nonstop flights between Shanghai and Barcelona, starting September 26.

• Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways is also expanding its Asian network. It will introduce a daily service to Taipei, Taiwan, from September 7. Furthermore, a new route to Peshawar, Pakistan, will begin on September 29.

Transpacific and North American Expansion

The North American market is also experiencing growth in long-haul connections.

• For example, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are launching a joint service. This new route, operated by Hawaiian Airlines, will connect Seattle with Seoul, South Korea, starting September 12.

• Moreover, China Eastern Airlines is resuming its transpacific service. Flights between Shanghai and Vancouver are set to restart on September 25.

Growth Within Asia and Europe

Intra-regional travel is also receiving a significant boost. As a result, several key new routes are being established.

• Indian carrier IndiGo is expanding its international network from Mumbai. The airline is launching new services to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on September 1, and to Almaty, Kazakhstan, on September 2.

• Additionally, Vietnamese airline VietJet is entering the Philippine market. It is creating a new connection between Ho Chi Minh City and Manila.

• Within Europe, Icelandair is adding new routes from Reykjavik. These flights will connect to Edinburgh, Scotland, and Malaga, Spain.

• Perhaps most significantly, direct flights between India and China are poised to resume after a five-year hiatus. Chinese airlines are reportedly applying for flight slots in Delhi. This development signals a major reopening between the two Asian giants.