About Air India
Air India was originally founded as Tata Airlines in 1932 and its name was officially truncated as Air India in 1946. It is a state-owned enterprise and is headquartered in New Delhi. The primary operation hub for Air India is located at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and its secondary hub is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai. Domestically, Air India is India’s third largest carrier. Internationally, it is the largest international airline in terms of market share. It was the first Asian airline to include a jet aircraft in its fleet. In 2017 Air India covers 89 domestic and international destinations across four continents. It operates a fleet of 118 modern aircraft of different Airbus and Boeing models.
Privileges When Booking Air India:
- Air India is a member of Star Alliance, the largest international airline alliance, which ensures the diversity of destinations, smooth transition of flights, accumulation of mileage when traveling with a partner airline and access to over 100 airport waiting-lounges around the world.
- High standard of safety and security.
- Air India offers a lavish and comfortable travel experience at practical prices affordable by everyone regardless of their lifestyle.
- Complimentary meals/snacks and beverages for all passengers regardless of their ticket class.
- Easy online booking and customer call center to facilitate booking.
- Pre-selection of preferred seats.
- The loyalty program, Flying Returns, qualifies subscribed clients for the accumulation of free miles, and access to airport lounges in different airports around the world among other benefits.
Show more
Air India Expands Airbus Fleet with 100 Additional Aircraft
Air India has placed a new order for 100 Airbus aircraft, comprising 10 A350 widebody and 90 A320 Family narrowbody jets. This order adds to the airline's massive 2023 commitment of 470 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing, bringing the total Airbus orders to 350. The move is part of Air India's growth strategy to cater to India’s booming aviation market.
Air India Begins Refurbishment of Its Legacy Fleet
Air India’s A320neo fleet will be updated with interior enhancements, including 8 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 132 Economy Class seats. These upgrades will introduce USB ports, electronic device holders, and refreshed upholstery to improve passenger comfort.
Air India Introduces A350-900 on Delhi-New York Route
Starting November 1, 2024, Air India will operate its flagship A350-900 aircraft on the Delhi-New York JFK route. This marks the debut of the ultra long-haul A350 on this crucial route, enhancing passenger experience with upgraded interiors and the introduction of a Premium Economy.
AIR INDIA PARTNERS MEDAIRE TO OFFER ENHANCED IN-FLIGHT HEALTHCARE FOR PASSENGERS
Air India Collaborates with MedAire for Enhanced In-Flight Healthcare: Air India partners with MedAire to provide advanced medical support to passengers and crew onboard its flights, setting a new standard in Indian aviation.
Air India Top Routes
Air India is one of the leading airlines connecting the Gulf region with India. Below are some of the top routes that are highly popular among travelers:
- Riyadh to Hyderabad Flights.
- Riyadh to Mumbai Flights.
- Dammam to Delhi Flights.
- Dammam to Lucknow Flights.
- Hyderabad to Riyadh Flights.
- Mumbai to Riyadh Flights.
- Jeddah to Hyderabad Flights.
- Riyadh to Delhi Flights.
- Kuwait to Chennai Flights.
Awards Received by Air India:
- 2013: Air India was awarded the Gold Award in the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand survey, India.
- 2012: - Air India was awarded India’ Leading Airline by World Travel Awards.
- 2012: - Air India was awarded The Best Performing Airline award by Travelport, Singapore.
- 2011: Air India was awarded Asia’s Leading Airline for Economy Class by World Travel Awards.
- 2009: Air India was awarded the First Prize of the National Energy Conservation Awards by Bureau of Efficiency and Ministry of Power, India.
Air India and Codeshare Agreements
Air India shares code with more than 26 major airlines in order to expand its services to more destinations and to offer smooth transitions in layover airports. The list below shows a sample of them:
Air India Highlights
Travel classes onboard Malaysia Airlines:
Travel Classes on Air India:
Air India offers First Class, Executive Class, and Economy Class. It serves affluent as well as average passengers when it comes to ticket price, services, and amenities offered.
First Class
: First Class cabin features luxury and comfort. Seats recline to 180 degrees converting to comfortable beds. Seats are designed to be either a window or aisle seats to enhance the freedom to walk around and to enjoy the scenery outside the plane. While on board, the passengers are provided with entertainment programs of several types to spend wonderful time during their flights.
Executive Class
This class offers business passengers distinctive travel experience featuring lavish style. The passengers enjoy outstanding on-ground services and in-flight amenities similar to those on the First class above explained. For instance, seats are spacious with either direct access to the aisle to the window to enjoy the panoramic view from the airplane on selected aircraft. Seats are supported with individuals TV screen to spend amusing time watching the latest entertainment programs of over 500 hours of of movies, TV shows, and music from international and local Indian cinema. Air India Executive class passengers are eligible for waiting lounges.
Economy Class
Air India Economy class offers travelers’ seamless first-hand travel experience on cost-effective budget. The passengers are privileged with many in-flight services. The cabin is equipped with improved illumination and temperature control, AVOD, and a bilingual magazine published in Hindi and English. The passengers can spend unforgettable moments during their flights while watching their favorite movies.
Fleet Size & Models:
Air India Fleet Size & Models:
- Aircraft Type
- Number of Aircraft
- Boeing 777-200LR
- 3 Aircraft
- Boeing 777-300ER
- 14 Aircraft
- Boeing 747-400
- 4 Aircraft
- Boeing 787-800
- 27 Aircraft
- Airbus A320 Classic
- 4 Aircraft
- Airbus A320CEO
- 9 Aircraft
- Airbus A320 NEO
- 15 Aircraft
- Airbus A319
- 22 Aircraft
- Airbus A321
- 20 Aircraft
- Total
- 118 Aircraft
Baggage Policy on Air India:
Baggage Policy on Air India:
All classes are allowed hand luggage and checked baggage on Air India. It allows one piece of cabin baggage weighing 8 kgs maximum per passenger on both domestic as well as international flights. In addition to that, safe personal items might be allowed such as a laptop, handbag, rug, a folding wheelchair or an umbrella. When it comes to checked baggage on domestic flights, the following scheme illustrates the size limits:
- Economy class: The passengers are allowed 25 kgs cost-free of checked baggage.
- Business class: The passengers are allowed 35 kgs of checked baggage.
- First class: They are allowed a checked baggage of 40 kgs.
- Infants in all these classes are eligible for 10 kgs of checked baggage. On international flights, checked baggage allowance varies depending on travelers’ class and final destinations. Therefore, it is highly recommended that passengers verify their baggage allowance during the booking process. Note, also that Air India allows excess baggage in return for nominal charges.
In-flight Amenities:Meals and Beverage:
In-flight Amenities:Meals and Beverage:
Indian cuisine has spread all over the world, but the best opportunity to try out the genuine taste of Indian cuisine is to travel onboard Air India on First class takes. The passengers indulge in the culinary skills of Air India’s chefs. The passengers are serviced with a cocktail followed by a collection of entrees that leaves no taste unexplored. They select their favorite dishes from Indian veg and non-veg dishes as well as continental cuisines along with beverages.
In-flight shopping:
Air India' onboard shopping program named Sky Bazaar offers the passengers famous brands of duty-free products to buy their gifts and memorabilia and surprize their dear family members and friends.
Miscellaneous Services:On-ground services:
Air India offers First Class and Executive Class passengers impressive on-ground services. They are offered exclusive check-in facilities and granted access to Air India glamorous Lounges available in the airlines’ operational airports inside India and in some international airports outside India or those of its partners. The passengers can spend relaxing time and memorable moments enjoying the world-class services that these lounges offer; from food, personal care services, to entertainment, Internet access, power outlets for charging electronic devices to carrying out business activities and relaxation. Out of dedication to customer satisfaction and to serve its clients in the Gulf Cooperation Countries, Air India has airport lounges in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Bahrain, Doha, Kuwait, Dammam, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Muscat.
Booking Procedures and Issuance of Boarding Pass on Air India
Booking Procedures and Issuance of Boarding Pass on Air India
Travelers with Air India can book their flight online and they can select their preferred seats on selected routes in return for nominal fees. To facilitate the check-in process, Air India provides online check-in services. Any traveler with a confirmed booking can check-in online via their PC or mobile via Air India Mobile Apps is available for iPhone and Android. Online check-in is available 48 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure time, bearing in mind that the travelers with special needs, such as unaccompanied minors, senior citizens and the like, are not eligible to avail online check-in. Passengers need to collect their boarding pass from Air India check-in counters at the airports. Air India counters close 40 minutes prior to the departure time of domestic flights and 60 minutes before departure time of international flights.
Air India Flights FAQs:
What are the baggage allowances for Air India flights?
Air India's baggage allowance varies by flight route and ticket class. Typically, Economy Class allows 25 kg for checked baggage on domestic routes and 30 kg on international routes. Hand luggage is usually 7 kg. Always check your booking for specific allowances.
Can I select my seat on Air India flights?
Yes, Air India offers seat selection for most flights. Passengers can choose their seats during the booking process or through "Manage My Booking" on the website. Some seats may incur additional charges.
How do I check in for an Air India flight?
You can check in online 48 hours to 2 hours before your flight or check in at the airport. Online check-in is recommended to save time and allow you to select seats and print your boarding pass in advance.
What is the process for canceling or changing my flight with Air India?
You can cancel or change your booking online through The Airlines website or mobile app under "Manage My Booking." Cancellation or change fees may apply depending on your fare class and ticket terms.
Does Air India offer special meals?
Yes, The Airlines provides a variety of special meals, including vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, and gluten-free options. Passengers should request special meals at least 24 hours before departure through "Manage My Booking."
Is there Wi-Fi on Air India flights?
The Airline does not currently offer in-flight Wi-Fi on most flights. However, the airline is considering introducing Wi-Fi on select routes in the future.
Can I upgrade my Air India ticket to Business Class?
Yes, The Airlines allows passengers to upgrade to Business Class, subject to availability. Upgrades can be requested online through "Manage My Booking," at the airport, or via the Flying Returns miles program.
What amenities are provided on Air India international flights?
On international flights, Air India offers various amenities, including complimentary meals, entertainment screens, blankets, pillows, and amenity kits for Business and First Class passengers.
Are pets allowed on Air India flights?
Yes, Air India allows pets on select domestic and international flights, subject to specific guidelines. Passengers need to make prior arrangements and ensure all required documents and vaccinations for their pets.
How can I track the status of my Air India flight?
You can check real-time flight status updates on Air India’s website by entering your flight number or destination information. Many airport websites also provide live tracking.
General Information about Air India
- Code "IATA"
- AI
- ICAO Code
- AIC
- Company Headquarters
- New Delhi
- Main Operating Airport
- Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Number of destinations
- More than 94
- Fleets Size
- 118 Aircraft
- Date of Establishment
- 1932
- Website
- www.airindia.com