Air India Launches No-Frills "Basic" Fare for Domestic Flights

Air India has launched a new "Basic" fare option for domestic Economy Class travel, adding a fourth, unbundled tier to its existing branded fare structure of Value, Classic, and Flex, which were introduced in 2024.

which were introduced in 2024.

The Basic fare, currently being trialed on select domestic routes, includes a 15kg checked baggage allowance, a 7kg cabin baggage allowance, and complimentary tea or coffee, but does not include a complimentary meal. The fare is entirely optional, and travelers can still choose from the airline's existing fare families, all of which include meals and additional bundled benefits at progressively higher price points.

Passengers booked on Basic fares will be able to pre-purchase meals up to 24 hours before departure, with options including Vegetarian, Non-Vegetarian, Jain, and Diabetic selections. If a flight is rescheduled, pre-purchased meals will automatically transfer to the new flight or be fully refunded if unavailable.

The Basic fare can currently be booked only through Air India's direct channels, including its website, mobile app, contact centre, and airport ticketing offices. The airline said it will evaluate customer feedback during the pilot phase before deciding on a wider rollout.

The move reflects a broader push by Air India to offer more granular fare choices, allowing price-conscious travelers to pay only for the services they need while preserving full-service options for those who prefer an all-inclusive experience.