CHAT WITH US NOW!
What is Air India Express? What You Need to Know About it as a Traveller?
Are you planning your next trip within India or to popular destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia? Air India Express is your go-to low-cost carrier offering affordable flights, reliable service, and extensive connectivity. Air India Express, a subsidiary of the Air India Group, has become a favourite among budget-conscious travellers seeking value without compromising on essentials.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about Air India Express, from its history and fleet to popular routes, services, and the unbeatable benefits that make it a top choice for travellers. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-timer, this article will help you make informed decisions for your journey.
What is Air India Express?
Air India Express is an Indian low-cost airline owned by the Air India Group, a Tata Enterprise. Headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana, it specialises in short-haul and regional flights, connecting India with key international destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Launched on April 29, 2005, as a subsidiary of Air India, it was designed to cater to the growing demand for budget-friendly travel from South India to Gulf countries and beyond.
Today, as of 2026, Air India Express operates over 500 flights per day, serving 45 domestic and 17 international destinations. Its primary hubs are Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, with secondary hubs including Kochi, Trivandrum, Calicut, Chennai, and others. This strategic network ensures seamless connectivity for both leisure and business travellers.
Please note that the number of operational flights might change.
History and Evolution of Air India Express
Originally focused on point-to-point flights from South India, Air India Express quickly established dominance on high-density expatriate routes to the Gulf. Despite challenges faced by its parent company in the 2010s, it remained profitable with a steady fleet of 24 aircraft. A major milestone came in 2021 when the Tata Group acquired Air India and its subsidiaries, injecting fresh capital and ambition.
By 2023, during the Paris Air Show, Air India ordered 470 Boeing aircraft, including 190 737 MAX planes transferred to Air India Express. Deliveries began in October 2023, with plans to expand the fleet to 170 aircraft in five years. In October 2024, it merged with AIX Connect under the Air India Express brand, streamlining operations under the ‘IX’ IATA code.
Air India Express Fleet and Services
Air India Express operates a modern fleet primarily consisting of Boeing 737 aircraft, optimised for efficiency on short-haul routes. As a low-cost carrier, it features an all-Economy Class cabin with a new 2025 design: 3-3 seating in beige soft leather seats by Collins Aerospace, complete with armrests, tray tables, lighting, and charging ports. Front and exit row seats are in orange for easy identification.
Services are value-driven: no standard inflight meals, but heated meals are available on demand. Flexible fare options include hand baggage-only deals, with add-ons like Xpress Ahead for priority check-in, boarding, and baggage delivery. Additional offerings cover cargo, ground handling, line maintenance, and group charters.
Skytrax Rating and Passenger Experience
Certified as a 3-Star Low-Cost Airline by Skytrax, Air India Express scores well on affordable meals and snacks of good standard, courteous cabin staff, and basic cabin comfort. Areas for improvement include cramped seats and cabin cleanliness, but its friendly service helps maintain the rating.
Destinations and Popular Routes with Air India Express
With 45 domestic and 17 international destinations, Air India Express excels in connecting tier-2 cities to metros and abroad. Its network taps into diaspora travel demand, business hubs, and leisure spots.
Top Domestic Routes
- Delhi–Guwahati: Ideal for Northeast explorers.
- Bengaluru–Hyderabad: Tech professionals’ favourite.
- Bengaluru–Kochi: Linking IT hubs to Kerala’s backwaters.
- Delhi–Pune: Business and family travel hotspot.
- Other popular ones: Delhi–Bengaluru, Delhi–Indore, Bhopal–Bengaluru, Bengaluru–Kolkata.
Top International Routes
- Dubai–Kozhikode and Dubai–Mangalore: High-load for Kerala and Karnataka diaspora.
- Abu Dhabi–Kochi and Abu Dhabi–Thiruvananthapuram: Gulf-Kerala lifeline.
- Sharjah–Kannur and Sharjah–Kozhikode: Migrant worker and trader routes.
- More: Trichy–Singapore, Amritsar–Dubai, Jaipur–Dubai, Bangkok connections.
Check the full route map on the Air India Express route map page for the latest updates.
Benefits of Flying with Air India Express
Why choose Air India Express? Here are the key benefits every traveller should know:
- Affordable Fares: Low-cost model with value fares on busy routes, perfect for budget travel.
- Extensive Network: 500+ daily flights to 62 destinations, connecting tier-2 cities seamlessly.
- Reliable Operations: Modern Boeing fleet, quick turnarounds, and integrated logistics for baggage and cargo.
- Flexible Add-Ons: Xpress Ahead, meal options, priority services – Customise your experience.
- Codeshare Partnerships: Connect with Air India and Scoot for a broader reach.
- Focus on Diaspora and Leisure: Tailored for high-demand expatriate and tourist routes.
- Growing Fleet: Expansion to 170 aircraft ensures more frequencies and reliability.
For business travellers, routes like Bengaluru–Hyderabad offer frequent, affordable options. Leisure seekers love Kochi backwaters via Dubai or direct domestic hops. Families appreciate the single-class simplicity and add-on packs.
Booking Tips for Air India Express
Book early for the best deals on Air India Express. Use their website for fare bundles, including meals or priority. Web check-in isn’t always available, so arrive early. Explore our booking guide for tips and reach out to TourismBharat.com for a convenient group or individual booking.
Conclusion: Book Your Next Flight with Air India Express Today
Air India Express stands out as a reliable, affordable choice for travellers exploring India, the Gulf, and Southeast Asia. With its expanding network, modern fleet, and passenger-focused services, it’s more than just a budget airline – it’s your gateway to seamless journeys.
Ready to experience the benefits of Air India Express? Visit their official website now to check flights, snag deals, and plan your trip. Whether it’s a quick domestic hop or an international getaway, Air India Express has you covered. Book today and fly smart!
Explore more on the best low-cost airlines in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Air India Express
1. What are the main hubs of Air India Express?
Primary hubs are Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. Secondary includes Kochi, Trivandrum, Calicut, and Chennai.
2. Does Air India Express offer in-flight meals?
No standard meals, but heated meals are available on demand. Snacks and beverages can be purchased onboard.
3. What is the fleet size and expansion plan for Air India Express?
Currently operating Boeing 737s with deliveries ongoing; plans to deliver 170 aircraft over five years.
4. Is Air India Express a low-cost carrier?
Yes, certified 3-Star Low-Cost by Skytrax, with affordability as its focus and optional add-ons available.
5. Which are the most popular international routes of Air India Express?
Top ones: Dubai–Kozhikode, Abu Dhabi–Kochi, Sharjah–Kannur.