air india Flight Booking

About Air India (AI) Flights

Air India is the flag carrier of India and one of the country?s largest international airlines. It operates a fleet of around 198 aircraft, including 6 Airbus A350-900, 94 Airbus A320neo, 4 Airbus A320ceo, 14 Airbus A321neo, 13 Airbus A321ceo, 6 Airbus A319, 27 Boeing B787-8, 7 Boeing B787-9, 8 Boeing B777-200LR, and 19 Boeing B777- 300ER. The airline serves 100+ destinations across more than 30 countries, making it one of Asia?s most globally connected carriers. Its primary hub is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi, with secondary hubs at Mumbai (BOM) and Bengaluru (BLR). Founded in 1932 as Tata Airlines, Air India is now part of the Tata Group and has been a member of the Star Alliance since 2014.

Passengers flying with Air India can choose from Economy Class, Premium Economy (on select routes), Business Class, and First Class (limited long-haul routes). Services include online check-in, mobile app check-in, airport kiosks, frequent-flyer rewards through Flying Returns, in-flight Wi-Fi (on newer aircraft), and entertainment options. Boarding passes are issued after completing the check-in process.

Air India has global codeshare connectivity, operating both domestic and international flights with extensive coverage across Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia.

The airline has more than 20 codeshare partners that include:

• Lufthansa
• Singapore Airlines
• Swiss International Air Lines
• Austrian Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• Air Canada

Air India Check-In and Boarding Process

Passengers receive their boarding pass after completing check-in.

• Online check-in via mobile or desktop (available 48 hours before departure).
• Mobile app check-in with digital boarding pass.
• Airport kiosks for self-service check-in and bag tags.
• Counter check-in with staff assistance.
• Check-in must be completed online or at the airport to obtain a boarding pass.

Check-In and Boarding Requirements

• Online check-in is available from 48 hours up to 2 hours before international flights and up to 1 hour before domestic flights.
• Airport check-in counters close 60 minutes before international flights and 45 minutes before domestic flights.
• Passengers should arrive at least 2?3 hours before international flights and 90 minutes before domestic flights.
• Boarding begins 30?40 minutes before departure and closes 15 minutes prior to departure.
• Passengers will have to arrive early to clear security and immigration, especially for international flights.

Boarding Pass Options

• Mobile boarding pass ? convenient and easy to access on your smartphone.
• Printed boarding pass ? reliable for long journeys or connecting flights when phone battery may run low.
• A mobile or printed boarding pass is required for security and boarding gate access.

Premium Check-In

• Dedicated Business Class and First Class check-in counters at major airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru).
• Personalized service from Air India staff for baggage and travel needs.
• Direct access to priority security lanes reduces wait times.
• Priority baggage tagging ensures faster delivery at baggage claim.
• Premium passengers should use dedicated counters for quicker service and priority handling.

Curbside Check-In

• Air India does not generally offer curbside check-in worldwide.
• Limited curbside assistance may be available at select partner airports abroad, but international flights require check-in inside the terminal.
• No extra fee for assistance itself; standard baggage fees still apply.
• Most flights require check-in inside the terminal, as curbside check-in is rarely available.

What To Do If a Boarding Pass Is Lost?

A boarding pass is essential for travel with Air India, as it contains your flight number, departure gate, boarding time, and destination details. If you misplace or lose your boarding pass, don?t panic ? Air India provides several ways to reissue or reprint it quickly.

Steps to Recover a Lost Boarding Pass

• Report immediately to the Air India check-in counter and request a new boarding pass.
• Passengers will need to present a valid government ID and their booking details to receive a replacement.
• Provide valid government ID and flight details to verify your booking.
• Identity verification is required before a new boarding pass is issued.
• Use a self-service kiosk at the airport to reprint your boarding pass in minutes.
• At the kiosk, enter your booking reference or frequent-flyer number to reprint your pass.
• If you have a mobile boarding pass, simply show it at security or re-download/reprint it if needed.
• Keep your phone charged or carry a printed backup for your boarding pass.
• If you are already inside the airport, approach the Air India gate agent for assistance and boarding pass re-printing.
• Request help at the gate desk if boarding pass re-printing is needed before boarding closes.

Air India Boarding Zones

• Pre-boarding is offered to travelers who require special assistance, including passengers with disabilities and families traveling with young children. Arrive early and notify staff to use pre-boarding.
• Group 1 boards first and includes Business Class and First Class passengers, along with Flying Returns Maharajah Club (top-tier) members. Use the dedicated priority lane for faster boarding.
• Group 2 is reserved for Flying Returns Golden Edge Club members and Star Alliance Gold travelers. Show frequent flyer status at the gate to board early.
• Group 3 boards next, covering Flying Returns Silver Edge Club members and Premium Economy passengers (on routes where available). Wait until Group 2 completes boarding before proceeding.
• Group 4 is for Economy Class passengers, generally boarded rear-to-front to reduce aisle congestion. Follow gate announcements and board according to seat location.

Air India Baggage Policy

Air India allows passengers to carry baggage while maintaining safety and comfort for all travelers. The allowance depends on the route, cabin class, and Flying Returns frequent flyer membership level. The baggage policy is divided into three main categories: personal baggage, carry-on baggage, and checked baggage.

Personal Baggage

• All passengers are allowed one personal item free of charge.
• This may include a handbag, laptop bag, small backpack, or similar item.
• The item must fit under the seat in front of you. Recommended dimensions: up to 17 x 13 x 8 inches (43 x 33 x 20 cm).
• Ensure personal items fit under the seat and do not obstruct aisles.

Carry-On Baggage

• One carry-on bag is generally allowed along with a personal item, depending on fare rules. The bag must fit in the overhead bin.
• Maximum dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) including handles and wheels.
• Economy Class passengers: 1 cabin bag up to 17 lbs (8 kg).
• Business Class passengers: 2 cabin bags up to 17 lbs (8 kg) each.
• Store cabin bags in overhead bins and keep within weight limits.

Checked Baggage

• Economy Class passengers: 1?2 bags, depending on route, each weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
• Premium Economy passengers (on select routes): 2 bags, each weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
• Business Class passengers: 2 bags, each weighing up to 70 lbs (32 kg).
• First Class passengers (limited long-haul routes): 3 bags, each weighing up to 70 lbs (32 kg).
• Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges.
• Bags exceeding standard limits may not be accepted.
• Check your baggage at the counter and pay extra if exceeding the allowance.

Additional Policies

• Extra baggage can be purchased online, via the app, or at the airport.
• Buying baggage in advance is cheaper than paying at the airport.
• Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges.
• All items must be packed securely inside proper luggage.
• Pre-purchase extra baggage to save on costs and limit surcharges at the airport.

Pet Carriers

• Air India allows pets to travel on domestic flights and select international routes.
• Pets may travel in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and carrier does not exceed 11 lbs (5 kg).
• The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Larger pets must travel in the cargo hold.
• Assistance dogs travel free of charge in the cabin.
• A pet fee is paid at check-in depending on size, weight, and destination.
• Register pets in advance and meet carrier requirements set by Air India.

Air India Hubs and Top Routes

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi is Air India?s primary hub and one of the busiest airports in Asia. Air India operates most of its long-haul and international services from DEL, using Terminal 3 for both domestic and international flights. The airport offers extensive dining, shopping, and lounge facilities, including the Air India Maharajah Lounge for premium travelers. DEL is Air India?s most strategic hub, connecting India with North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Passengers can connect through Delhi for most long-haul international journeys.

• Top Route: New Delhi (DEL) to London Heathrow (LHR)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM)

Mumbai?s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is Air India?s secondary hub, handling a large share of domestic and international flights. The airline operates from Terminal 2, which features modern lounges, shopping, and dining options. BOM is a critical hub for West India, offering strong connectivity to the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Use Mumbai for convenient connections to the Middle East and Europe.

• Top Route: Mumbai (BOM) to Dubai (DXB)

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR)

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru serves as Air India?s southern hub, focusing on domestic and select international routes. BLR offers modern facilities, lounges, and strong IT/business traveler traffic. It is a growing hub for flights to Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Passengers will have to connect through Bengaluru for South India and onward international travel.

• Top Route: Bengaluru (BLR) to Singapore Changi (SIN)

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD)

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad is a regional hub for Air India, supporting domestic and international operations. HYD is strategically important for South-Central India, with growing connectivity to the Middle East and Asia. The airport features modern lounges and shopping facilities.

• Top Route: Hyderabad (HYD) to Abu Dhabi (AUH)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the fleet size and aircraft operated by Air India?

Air India operates a fleet of around 186 aircraft. The fleet includes Airbus A319, A320, A320neo, A321, A321neo, Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787-8, and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. These aircraft are used for both short-haul domestic routes and long-haul international services. Fly on narrow-body aircraft for domestic and regional routes, and wide-body aircraft for long-haul journeys.

What is the on-time performance record of Air India?

Air India maintains a moderate on-time performance, averaging around 70?75% on-time arrivals. Punctuality varies depending on season, weather, and operational conditions. Check flight status online or via the app before heading to the airport.

How safe is Air India?

Air India has a strong safety record and complies with international aviation safety standards. It is a member of the Star Alliance, which requires strict operational and safety compliance.

How many passengers does Air India carry annually?

Air India carried approximately 25 million passengers in 2025, and this number is expected to grow significantly as the airline expands its fleet and network under Tata Group ownership. Passengers should expect busy hubs like Delhi and Mumbai, especially on international routes.

Does Air India allow pets on flights?

Yes, Air India allows pets in the cabin if they are at least 8 weeks old. Pets must fit comfortably in a carrier no larger than 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 23 cm), and the combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 11 lbs (5 kg). Larger pets must travel in the cargo hold. Service dogs are permitted in the cabin at no charge. Register pets in advance and ensure carriers meet Air India?s standards.

Does Air India provide wheelchair assistance?

Yes, Air India provides wheelchair assistance for passengers who need it. Requests can be made online during booking, through the Air India app, or at the airport. One can request wheelchair assistance in advance to ensure smooth boarding.

Does Air India offer discounts for military, students, or seniors?

Air India does not offer broad military discounts like U.S. carriers. However, student concessions are available on select domestic and international routes, and senior citizen discounts are offered on domestic flights within India. Passengers will have to check eligibility and book directly with Air India to access these concessions.

What is Air India?s policy for pregnant passengers?

Pregnant women can generally fly unrestricted until 27 weeks of pregnancy. Between 28 and 32 weeks, a medical certificate confirming fitness to fly is required. Travel is not permitted after 32 weeks of pregnancy. Provide a medical certificate if traveling between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy.