Air India has launched a new ‘Basic’ fare category for Economy Class travellers on select domestic routes, expanding customer choice and introducing a lower-priced option for passengers seeking a more unbundled travel experience.
The new fare family is being introduced on a pilot basis and complements the airline’s existing Value, Classic and Flex fare categories, which were launched in 2024 as part of Air India’s broader customer experience transformation programme.
The Basic fare is designed for value-conscious travellers and includes a 15 kg checked baggage allowance, a 7 kg cabin baggage allowance and complimentary beverage service, including tea and coffee. Complimentary meals, however, are not included as part of the fare.
According to the airline, the introduction of the new fare reflects changing traveller preferences and aims to provide greater flexibility in how customers select and pay for services.
The airline said passengers will continue to have access to the existing Value, Classic and Flex fare families, all of which include complimentary meals and additional bundled benefits at different price points. The Basic fare is being positioned as an optional alternative rather than a replacement for existing offerings.
Passengers booking the new fare category will also have the option to pre-purchase meals up to 24 hours before departure. Available meal choices include Vegetarian, Non-Vegetarian, Jain and Diabetic options. Air India stated that pre-booked meals will automatically transfer in the event of schedule changes or flight reaccommodation, while refunds will be provided if meals cannot be offered.
The Basic fare is currently available exclusively through Air India’s direct booking channels, including its website, mobile application, contact centre and airport ticketing offices.
The airline said the pilot rollout will allow it to assess customer response and gather feedback before determining the future scope of the offering.
The launch forms part of Air India’s ongoing efforts to refine its product portfolio and provide travellers with more transparent fare options. By introducing differentiated service bundles, the carrier aims to cater to a wider range of customer preferences while maintaining its full-service proposition for passengers seeking a more inclusive travel experience.
As Air India continues its transformation programme, the airline remains focused on enhancing flexibility, improving customer choice and aligning its offerings with evolving travel trends across the domestic aviation market
