Our top five stories on Routes Weekly this week:

1. Why Delta is returning to India
US carrier Delta Air Lines claims that its planned return to India is because of agreements over three of its Middle Eastern rivals' practices. However, analysis of the market suggest there are bigger factors at play. Read more.

2. Singapore Airlines to take world’s longest flight crown
Singapore Airlines has revealed plans to serve New York from Singapore, taking the crown from Qatar Airways as the operator of the world's longest commercial flight. Read more.

3. Nordica is aiming high as it finds its niche
How will Nordica, Estonia’s new flag carrier, succeed where Estonian Air failed? Partnerships are key as the airline rapidly finds its niche. Read more.

4. Innovation: ANA invests in space race
All Nippon Airways' parent company has made a further investment in a business seeking to develop commercial space flight using a new type of spacecraft. Read more.

5. Passenger demand rises but IATA warns on airline profits
Global passenger traffic demand rose in April, but IATA's Alexandre de Juniac has warned that airline profits will be lower than forecast. Read more.

PLUS:
Rwanda agreements to open new aviation links
Bulletin board: aviation industry news round-up
Route rundown: MAN-LAX, VIE-AMM
Airline in focus: Air Italy
Routes News magazine out now
ASM Route Development Accreditation available for Routes Africa delegates