About Air India

Air India, established in 1932, serves as India's national flag carrier and operates over 150 direct domestic flights. As a member of the Star Alliance, Air India connects passengers worldwide, offering nonstop flights to over 40 global destinations and seamless travel to 710 destinations worldwide through codeshare, interline, and intermodal partnerships.

With a recent order of 470 new aircraft, Air India reinforces its commitment to modernizing its fleet and enhancing passenger experience. Currently, the airline operates 128 narrow-body and wide-body Airbus and Boeing aircraft, facilitating both passenger and cargo transport across international routes.

History

Founded by the visionary JRD Tata, Air India was a pioneer in India’s aviation sector, launching its first flight on October 15, 1932. Over the decades, it developed an extensive domestic and international network, connecting cities across the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Far East, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Gulf. In January 2022, after 69 years as a government-owned entity, Air India, along with Air India Express, returned to the Tata Group.

Air India is currently undergoing a transformative five-year roadmap, Vihaan.AI, aimed at establishing itself as a world-class airline with a distinct Indian identity. The initial "taxi phase" focused on addressing the airline's legacy issues at scale and laying the foundation for future growth.

Alliance

Air India’s strategic alliances with global airlines expand its network, allowing passengers to access more destinations while earning Air India Maharaja points. Through its membership in Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, loyalty members can earn and redeem points on flights with Air India and its partners, including major airlines such as Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines.

With these partnerships, Air India offers a seamless travel experience, featuring benefits like one-step check-in (excluding Air India Express codeshare flights), unified baggage guidelines, consolidated checked baggage drop-off, and a single booking reference. These conveniences make it simpler for passengers to navigate extended itineraries across multiple carriers.

Awards

Air India has received prestigious awards, including "Asia's Leading Airline - First Class 2021" and "Asia's Leading Airline Inflight Entertainment 2024". These accolades reflect its commitment to excellence in service and passenger experience.

In addition, Air India has been nominated for several categories in 2024, including Asia's Leading Airline - Business Class, Asia's Leading Airline - Economy Class, Asia's Leading Airline - First Class.

Class of Travel

Air India provides three classes of travel:

• First Class: Offers 180-degree reclining seats, serving only 12 passengers, and attentive yet unobtrusive service. Passengers enjoy gourmet entrées paired with vintage wine or champagne, along with Sky Bazaar’s exclusive duty-free shopping.
• Business Class: Has spacious cabins and premium meals, complemented by exclusive check-in and lounge access.
• Premium Economy: Adds comfort with extra legroom, TUMI amenities, noise-canceling headphones, and elevated meal options.
• Economy Class: Provides complimentary meals, a selection of Indian and continental dishes, in-flight entertainment, and a cozy seating with improved lighting and temperature controls on all Air India flights.

Baggage Allowance

Air India allows one carry-on bag per passenger, with a maximum weight of 7 kg (Premium Economy and Economy) and 10 kg (First and Business Class). Size limits are 55 cm in height, 40 cm in length, and 20 cm in width. All classes must adhere to the "One Hand Baggage Rule" per Indian security regulations, with additional charges for exceeding weight or size limits.

Passengers may also bring a small personal item up to 3 kg, such as a handbag, camera, or laptop, which must fit under the seats in front of them. For travelers with infants, essential items like food and feeding bottles are permitted, while those needing assistance may bring mobility aids. For checked baggage, allowances vary by route and class, starting at 15 kg on domestic flights, with international routes allowing 20–45 kg based on destination and ticket type.

Maharaja Club

Air India’s enhanced Maharaja Club program offers greater rewards, instant global recognition, and exclusive privileges to enhance each journey. Members earn Maharaja points on flights with Air India and the 24 Star Alliance airlines, as well as on purchases from partners for dining, luxury stays, shopping, and more.

Points can be redeemed for reward flights, upgrades to higher cabin classes, and other exclusive benefits, including booking with Cash + Points on Air India flights and the convenience of seats always being available. The Family Pool program allows two or more family members to link their Maharaja Club accounts and create one large pool. This further enables convenient redemptions, making it easier for everyone to enjoy rewards and unforgettable vacations together.

In-flight Services

Air India’s inflight dining includes Indian and international dishes, with meal options based on flight time and duration. Domestic flights offer meals by time of day, while international flights serve up to two main meals. Liquor is available on international flights, except during breakfast, and a vegetarian meal is provided on domestic flights if no choice is made.

Entertainment options include movies, TV shows, music, games, and a flight-tracking map. The Kids Zone provides content for young travelers, and passengers can enjoy personalized entertainment in six languages for a comfortable journey.

Check-in

Online check-in opens 48 hours and closes 60 minutes before departure. However, for international flights from Delhi, counters stay open up to 75 minutes before departure. Passengers are advised to arrive 3 hours early and review their e-ticket details to avoid any last-minute issues.

Onboard Support

Air India assists passengers with medical needs through the Medical Information Form (MEDIF). However, medical clearance is necessary for those with fitness concerns, pre-existing conditions, or special service needs. Medical clearance is given only after review of the completed form.

Air India allows domesticated dogs and cats on domestic and select international flights in either the cabin or cargo compartment, depending on weight and approvals. Brachycephalic breeds are restricted from the cargo compartment, and all pets must meet health and behavior requirements.

Refund & Cancellation

For tickets issued after May 25, 2022, request refunds through Air India’s website or app. For tickets purchased via an Air India office or agent, contact the respective office.

If Air India cancels a flight, passengers may request a refund or reschedule. For missed flights, a two-hour no-show period allows last-minute changes, with refunds based on ticket type and timing.

Cancellation refunds depend on class and timing. Economy Value only refunds taxes, while other classes allow modifications, with fees varying by timing. Adjust bookings via the "Manage Booking" section.