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Asian destinations served by Air India
Air India flight network spans a variety of destinations in Asia and the wider Asia Pacific region:
Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia,Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE
Why are Air India flights so expensive in 2024?
Airfares soared in 2023. Air India flights are more expensive now due to rising demand, limited supply, inflation, fuel prices, closed airspace, and increased operational costs.
One key factor within your control is the timing of your booking. To save money on travel, it’s wise to plan ahead – the best time to book international flights with Air India is between 2 to 8 months before your departure date.
The primary elements that impact the cost of flights:
- Rising demand With more people traveling in the post-pandemic era, airlines have no incentive to lower prices. Instead, they capitalize on spiked demand and raise prices to make up for lost revenue during the period of 2020-2022.
- Limited supply In 2024 Air India is still operating at reduced capacity after the pandemic. Staffing shortages of pilots, plane crew, and airport workers lead to flight cancellations and delays, affecting the supply even more. With fewer flights, the Indian carrier charges more for the plane tickets that are available.
- Inflation Inflation has a significant impact on flight prices, as it directly increases the cost of fuel and labor for airlines. This can be particularly true for Air India that operates in countries with high inflation rates.
- Jet fuel costs Fuel is a significant airline cost, influenced by crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions. To cope with rising fuel prices, the airline may pass it on to travelers in the form of a fuel surcharge added to the ticket price.
- Closed airspace Avoiding airspace due to war, political conflicts, extreme weather, or natural disasters make airline tickets more expensive. Air India may be forced to take longer routes to reach the destination airport – which means higher fuel and labor costs.
- Air India operating costs The costs of labor, aircraft maintenance, aircraft leasing or purchasing expenses, marketing, etc. significantly increased in 2024. As Air India aims to remain profitable, it must factor in these operating costs when setting ticket prices.
- Will flight prices go down in 2024?Historical trends suggest that airfare prices will fluctuate based on the factors described above. As long as the demand for travel is up, so is airfare. After tough years the Air India is in no position to offer discounts for passengers and will likely try to maximize profits in 2024.
Air India ticket price
What is the fair price of a Air India flight? While airfares constantly fluctuate, we can estimate costs based on historical data. If you want to know if you’re paying a fair price and not overpaying, check the figures below to gauge what to expect.
Assuming that you are flying one-way in economy class, your Air India flight ticket will cost:
- $50 – $200 for an ultra-short-haul flight up to 500 km (310 miles)
- $150 – $300 for a short-haul flight ranging 500–1,500 km (310–930 miles)
- $150 – $400 for a medium-haul flight ranging 1,500–3,000 km (930–1850 miles)
- $300 – $600 for a long-haul flight ranging 3,000–6,000 km (1850–3700 miles)
- $400 – $1000 for an ultra-long-haul flight above 6,000 km (3700 miles)
Round-trip (return) flights with Air India generally provide some cost savings compared to purchasing two separate one-way tickets. As a general guide, you can expect a savings of approximately 10–30% potential savings with round-trip bookings for extensive, ultra-long-haul flights.
It is a raw estimate on what ticket price you can expect and can serve as a guideline for what might be considered a reasonable, ‘fair’ fare. It’s based on key factors like flight distance, fuel cost, aircraft types used by the carrier, and the fact that Air India is a full-service airline.
Price-drop alerts
Price drops present an excellent chance to score an inexpensive flight. They are typically caused by an increased number of passenger cancellations — when the pricing algorithm is forced to return to lower price levels.
The same happens when the airline adds extra, unscheduled flights shortly before the departure date.
Best time to book
Air India flights
The best time to book international Air India flights is between 2 to 8 months before your travel date. The prime booking window (the most likely time to find the bargains) is 4–6 months before takeoff. For Air India domestic flights within India, making a reservation from 4 to 8 weeks in advance is recommended.
Why do prices fluctuate?
Airfare prices fluctuate due to demand, seasonal trends, and competition, causing numerous price drops and increases as your departure date approaches. Airlines such as Air India use sophisticated revenue management systems to adjust pricing for optimal seat sales. Generally, as seats are sold, prices tend to become more expensive.
Don’t book too early
Air India start selling their flights 9–12 months in advance. However, booking a ticket too early in that window can be an expensive mistake – the airline typically starts by setting prices at a relatively high level to capture early demand from those willing to pay more to secure their seats.
Prime Booking Window
For long-haul flights with Air India, the best time to book your ticket is around 4–6 months before departure. It is the “Prime Booking Window” – after some seats have already been sold, the airline starts dropping prices to stimulate demand.
It may also offer promotions and sales (especially for flights departing from its hub in Indira Gandhi International Airport DEL, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport BOM). This is the ideal time for bargain hunting.
Fly on weekdays
It makes a difference which day of the week you board the plane. Midweek travel (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays) is less busy and likely cheaper than flying on weekends. The Indian airline charges higher prices for weekend travel due to the high demand from people going on short getaways or visiting family and friends.
Opt for early morning flights
Select a late night or early morning (1–5 am) flight to save on airfare. Air India often offers discounts on their first morning flight (up to 15-20%) simply because of lower demand – most people are not willing to go to the airport so early. Moreover, morning flights have fewer delays, and airport queues are usually shorter.
Peak seasons are expensive
Peak travel seasons are always expensive – due to higher base prices set by Air India for dates it expects to be popular. Avoid the high season during summer and major holidays, including holidays in the country you’re flying to.
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Air India upgrades
How to get free upgrade to Air India Business Class?
Free upgrades to Air India Business Class are quite rare. The Indian carrier doesn’t offer them unless necessary – such as when the Economy Class is full. However, some tried-and-true methods (hacks) to increase your chances include joining Flying Returns loyalty program, traveling solo, booking flight times less popular among business travelers, or simply asking politely for an upgrade at check-in or the gate.
Let’s delve into the specifics:
- Be loyal. Joining an Flying Returns – Air India frequent flyer program – boosts your odds of free business class upgrades. Earning air miles through regular travel can lead to preferred status with the airline and possible complimentary class upgrades.
- Know your aircraft. Wide-body planes used by Air India have more business class seats, increasing the likelihood of empty seats. Check the aircraft type when booking and seat availability in business class close to departure. The more empty seats, the better your chances of an upgrade.
- Fly midweek or redeye. Book a flight on the less popular times for business travellers. Flying on midweek days, or late-night hours is a good way to reduce competition for business class seats.
- Go solo. If there is an upgrade to happen, the staff will look for solo bookings. Consider booking your flights separately even when traveling with friends.
- Volunteer for next flight. Like many airlines, Air India oversells flights to maximize their profit. If your flight is overbooked, consider volunteering to be “bumped” to the next flight – in exchange for an upgrade.
- Ask for an upgrade. Asking for an upgrade at the check-in or departure gate can be effective. Inquire politely about last-minute upgrade opportunities. It will help if you have a good reason: having a bad back problem, being exceptionally tall, celebrating a honeymoon, etc.
- Arrive early. If there is an upgraded seat available, being among the first to check in and request an upgrade often puts you in a favorable position.
- Bid for upgrade. This method, while costing money, has been effective for many passengers. After booking your flight, you may receive an offer from Air India to a blind auction for unsold business class seats. If your bid is successful, an upgraded boarding pass will be issued between 72 and 24 hours before departure.
Please note: not all fares can be upgraded. Don’t buy the cheapest possible Air India ticket with that expectation.
How much is Air India Business Class?
The cost of Business Class on Air India flights can vary, typically being 50-200% more expensive than its economy class. For international flights, fares usually range from $2,000 to $5,000 or even higher for ultra-long-haul flights. Yes, business class tickets can be shockingly unaffordable!
On average, Air India Business Class tickets cost $300 to $800 for short-haul (under 2 hours), $800 to $1500 for medium-haul (2-6 hours), and $1500 to $5000 for long-haul flights (over 6 hours). For ultra-long-haul flights (10 hours or more) prices start at $2500 and can go much higher, up to $8,000.
This premium price depends on factors like the type of aircraft, route, flight duration, time of booking, and demand. Additionally, business class features like spacious seating, lie-flat beds, gourmet meals, advanced entertainment, increased luggage allowances, priority boarding, and lounge access also contribute to its higher price tag.
Why is Air India so cheap on ATC?
Air India can be extremely cheap when you seize opportunities such as ‘mistake fares‘, sudden price drops, sales and promotions, or employ strategies like hidden city ticketing.
Moreover, flights connected to their main Indian hub airport — Indira Gandhi International Airport DEL — are typically priced lower due to the benefits of economies of scale, negotiated airport fees, and streamlined operations.
Air Traveler Club (ATC) capitalizes on these opportunities by tracking over 100 airlines, including Air India. We seek out heavily discounted deals, which we refer to as SuperDeals. All SuperDeals are 40%–80% off regular prices.
Air India tips
5–20% off when booking group flights with Air India
Flights are cheaper when purchased in bulk rather than as individual tickets. Booking group flights with Air India can be a cost-effective option for a school trip, family reunion, or corporate group traveling to a conference.
To qualify for the special group rate, the group must usually have at least 10 passengers. Discounts depend on the group size and travel dates and typically range from 5% to 20% off the regular airfare.
Air India website typically limits automatic group bookings to 9 passengers. This limit reflects the complexity of managing larger groups, which require personalized service and more time to coordinate. To get the price quote for your group, you’ll need to contact the airline directly.
A travel agent may be better if you want more personalized service. Travel agents may have access to discounted group rates for Air India and can help with logistics and scheduling.
Visit the official website to read more about the Air India group booking policy.
Cancelled Air India flight. What are your rights, and how to rebook or refund your ticket?
Even in normal times, Air India cancellations happen more than travelers realize. It is normal to expect around 1–2% of flights to be canceled. There are plenty of reasons why flights can be canceled: air traffic control delays, bad weather, late-arriving aircraft, mechanical issues, and staffing shortages.
Having your flight canceled is always an unfortunate situation, but if you know the rules, you can understand what you might try asking for.
If you choose to proceed with your journey after a flight cancellation, Air India might be able to arrange an alternative flight for you, typically within a reasonable timeframe. Should Air India fail to resolve the issue promptly, you might have the option to travel with a different airline and receive compensation for the canceled flight.
Flight cancellation could entitle you to compensation from Air India, in a form of a cash refund. Depending on where your flight is canceled, you might also receive food vouchers and complimentary accommodation until your next flight.
Air India may try to offer you a travel voucher in lieu of a cash refund. You don’t need to accept this, and shouldn’t, as travel vouchers can expire and may be nontransferable.
If your Air India flight is cancelled, visit the airline’s official website and read through the specific cancellation policy. Additionally, check the regulations of the originating country for precise entitlements. Lastly, reach out to carrier’s customer service for available options tailored to your situation.
What to do if you miss your Air India flight?
Every day, anywhere from 2% to 8% of passengers miss their Air India flight. It can happen to even the best-prepared travelers. However, if you act quickly, know your rights, and stay polite, you can minimize the potential fallout:
- Notify Air India immediately. Giving the airline a heads-up improves your chances of being rebooked on the next available flight, space permitting.
- Ensure you call the airline before your departure. While Air India typically charges for a new ticket if you miss your flight, there are notable exceptions. If they can release and possibly resell your seat (offsetting lost revenue), you might be rebooked without extra charges. In some cases, you may only need to pay the fare difference.
- Assess the flight schedule board. Look for later trips with Air India. Verify if seats are available; if not, ask the check-in or gate agent to place you on the standby list.
- Do not expect a refund if you miss a flight due to being late. Air India will classify you as a “no-show” and no refund will apply. Note that your return flight will also be canceled automatically. However, contacting the airline before departure might secure a partial ticket credit, depending on your ticket type.
- If you missed a connecting flight and your checked luggage has gone ahead without you, immediately contact an airline representative. The carrier may be able to track your bags and hold them for you or reroute the bag to your new flight’s destination.
- If you miss your flight and it is the airline’s fault, you could be eligible for options like automatic rebooking, complimentary overnight accommodations, or meal vouchers.
How to ensure smooth transit between Air India connecting flights
Before your trip, research your connecting airport. Familiarize yourself with its layout, terminals, amenities, and the location of your connecting gate. This will save you time and stress during your layover. Every airport has a minimum connection time — make sure your layover is longer than this minimum time.
Additionally:
- You may need to move between terminals if you have a connecting flight with a different airline or separate point-to-point tickets with Air India. Each flight may require individual check-in procedures and an additional pass through security. As your luggage may not be automatically transferred to your final destination, you’ll need to retrieve your bags and check them in again for your subsequent flight.
- When flights are booked on separate tickets, Air India is not responsible if you miss your connection due to a delay with the first flight. Allow plenty of buffer time between flights to account for any potential delays.
- Gate assignments can change. Regularly check the flight information boards to ensure you’re in the right place.
- If your airport connection is tight (1-hour layover or less), pick a set near the front of the plane. It can shave 5–10 minutes off your deplaning time, especially on larger planes.
FAQ
Does Air India last-minute flights get cheaper?
No, last-minute flights are often more expensive than booking in advance. Airlines increase prices as the departure date approaches, knowing that urgent travelers will pay a premium, especially for business or emergency travel.
Check this in-depth explanation of how last-minute deals work.
How to request a refund for your Air India ticket?
If your flight was canceled by Air India (due to bad weather, technical problems, strikes, overbooking, etc), you are entitled to a full refund.
If you need to cancel your flight for any reason, the refund amount will depend on your ticket's fare conditions.
You may be able to apply for a refund online through the airindia.com website. Visit their refunds page and follow the instructions to complete your refund request.
Once a refund request has been submitted, wait for a confirmation email. Air India will review your request and typically process the refund within 1-2 weeks.
Please note:
- Low-fare tickets are typically non-refundable. You will not receive a refund if you cancel your flight.
- Be sure to cancel your flight as soon as possible. The earlier you cancel, the more likely you will receive a full refund.
- Air India may charge you a cancellation or processing fee.
- Refunds for tickets purchased through a travel agent or OTA must be requested through that agent.
Can I get a refund if my Air India flight price drops after I buy?
Generally, no. The booking price is final, and the airline won't refund even if the price dropped for the same dates, times, and class.
However, there are exceptions:
- Your ticket is fully refundable. You can then cancel it at any time, usually without a fee, and buy a new one at a lower price.
- You’re fine taking another flight. Ask for rescheduling to the same or the next day. A rebooking fee may apply, but if the price difference is big enough, it could be worth it.
- Your flight originates or ends in the U.S. Take advantage of the 24-hour penalty-free cancellation window (the rule introduced for all airlines by the U.S. Department of Transportation). You'll get a full refund as long as your flight is at least 7 days away.
Does Air India have refundable tickets?
Yes, Air India does have refundable tickets in all classes. However, the terms and conditions for refunds vary depending on the fare type and when the ticket is canceled.
Economy Class
- Comfort: Only taxes refundable
- Comfort Plus: Only taxes refundable
- Flex: ₹ 6,500 (~$78) for cancellations more than 24 hours before departure
Premium Economy
- Comfort Plus : Only taxes refundable
- Flex: ₹ 7,500 (~$90) for cancellations more than 24 hours before departure
Business Class
- Comfort Plus: Only taxes refundable
First Class
- Flex: ₹ 7,500 (~$90) for cancellations more than 24 hours before departure
- First: ₹ 7,500 (~$90) for cancellations more than 24 hours before departure
Do I have to recheck my luggage on connecting flights?
When all layover flights are booked with Air India, your baggage will be automatically transferred through to your final destination. However, if one of the flights is with a different airline, you may have to claim and re-check your baggage during your layover.
How to get an extra legroom seat on Air India plane?
Securing an extra legroom seat on a Air India plane requires some planning and flexibility, but you can easily score one of these seats by familiarizing yourself with the cabin layout and checking in for your flight early. You may also consider paying for an upgrade to a seat with ample legroom and enhanced comfort.
As the location of the extra legroom seats varies depending on the aircraft, we recommend visiting the SeatGuru website. By simply entering your Air India flight number, you can access a detailed seat map specific to your flight. Hover over individual seats to identify those with ample legroom. They are often found in exit rows, bulkhead rows (the first row in each cabin section), or other designated areas that offer additional legroom.
Due to their desirable features, the preferred seats are in high demand. They are often limited in number and typically incur additional fees. Seats with extra legroom located in front and exit rows ("hot seats") are priced higher. However, for medium– and long–haul flights, the additional cost of $10-$50 may be worth the increased comfort. Hot seats typically provide at least 36 inches of legroom (4-6 inches more than standard economy seats), wider seat pitch, and may also have adjustable footrests and recline further back.
Paying for an extra legroom seat is usually a more affordable option than upgrading to a Premium Economy.
How do I obtain my Air India boarding pass?
Air India boarding pass is a travel document that contains crucial information about your flight, confirms your seat and allows you to board the plane. It includes the passenger’s name, flight number, boarding time, boarding zone, gate number, seat number, and other essential flight details. The Air India boarding pass can be in paper or electronic format. The boarding pass is issued during check-in — online on the airline's website (usually available 24 hours before the flight), its mobile app (mobile boarding pass) or at the airport. You can print your boarding pass at home or use a mobile app to store the digital boarding pass on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can check in at the airport, where the airline's representative will issue the boarding pass for you.
How to check Air India flight status?
If you have the flight number at hand, you can conveniently check the Air India flight status on the airline’s website. Visit the flight status page to get the reliable information regarding the scheduled and actual departure and arrival times.
There are several online platforms where you can check the status of Air India flight: FlightRadar24, FlightStats, or FlightAware. They offer comprehensive information about any flight (regardless of the airline) – including real-time flight tracking.
Alternatively, input your flight number directly into Google's search bar. Drawing data from diverse sources (including the airlines themselves), Google will provide you with all the crucial flight information right on the search results page.
References
- Flight search. Online booking tool for Air India Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First class tickets.
- Online check-in. Self-check in and boarding pass.
- Baggage policy. Checked and hand luggage regulations on Air India flights.
- Fare rules. Terms, fees, and restrictions for various ticket types. Also: Air India flexible ticket availability.
- Refunds and cancellations. Procedures and policies for canceling flights and obtaining refunds.
- Air India help. How to get in touch with the airline: customer service numbers, call centers, offices, and more.
