With a growing economy and an expanding middle class, air travel has become essential to modern Indian life. India is a land of diverse cultures and landscapes and a nation on the move. With the increasing demand for air travel, several air-friendly airlines have emerged catering to different segments of travelers. These airlines have made flying more accessible to the masses. Below is a list of the top 7 affordable airlines in India, which have not only redefined the travel experience but also made it more economical for everyone.
Indigo
Established in 2006, Indigo Airlines has redefined budget travel in India. Known for its punctuality and efficiency, the airline operates one of the largest fleets in the country. Its no-frills approach ensures affordable fares without compromising on safety or service. Indigo’s extensive domestic and international routes make it a popular choice among travelers looking for reliability and value.
The airline has also ranked first in India’s list of best airlines. Frequent flyers regularly choose Indigo for the cheapest flight fares, and deals offered year-round.
Other Details
| IATA Code | 6E |
| Reporting time | 3 hours before departure |
| In-flight meals | Optional/ pre-purchase/ On-flight purchase |
| Extra Baggage Charges | Extra baggage includes a charge of INR 1000 per piece at the airport. Pre-booking can be done online at a charge of INR 900 per piece. |
| Allows Pets | Allows only service dogs. |
SpiceJet
Founded in 2005, SpiceJet has become synonymous with affordable and enjoyable travel. The airline is known for its frequent discounts and promotional offers, making it a favorite among budget travelers. Its commitment to on-time performance and customer satisfaction has earned it a loyal customer base.
With a focus on both domestic and international routes, the airline continues to spice up the travel experience for millions of Indians. In fact, SpiceJet is one of the best airlines on the list of the best domestic airlines in India.
Other Details
| IATA Code | SG |
| Reporting time | 1 hour before departure |
| In-flight meals | Optional/ Pre-purchase/ On-flight purchase |
| Baggage Allowance | The airline allows one piece of free checked-in bag of up to 15kg per passenger and one piece of hand baggage with a maximum weight of 7kg for all domestic flights. |
| Extra-Baggage Charges | Extra baggage is charged at INR 550 per kg at the airport. However, passengers can avail of discounts by pre-booking. |
| Allows pets | Allows service animals in the cabin and domesticated cats and dogs can fly on specific fleets as Air Cargo. |
AirAsia India
The next airline on the list of the top 7 affordable airlines in India is AirAsia India. It is in fact, one of the best airlines of 2023 in India. It is a joint venture between Tata Sons and AirAsia Berhad, which entered the Indian market in 2014, bringing its renowned low-cost model to the country. The airline offers competitive fares and a hassle-free travel experience.
With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, AirAsia India has gained a loyal customer base. Its focus on operational efficiency and cost optimization has enabled it to provide affordable options for both domestic and international travel.
Other details
| IATA Code | I5 |
| Reporting time | 2 hours before departure |
| In-flight meals | Optional/ Pre-purchase/ On-flight purchase |
| Baggage Allowance | Passengers are allowed to carry two units of baggage; cabin and luggage with 7kg and 15kg capacity respectively |
| Extra-Baggage Charges | If cabin baggage exceeds 7 kg, flat Rs. 4000 for a maximum of up to 12kg will be charged at the airport. You can save your money by pre-booking baggage. |
| Pets Allowed | Allows only service dogs |
Vistara
Vistara launched its services in India in 2015 and ever since has been a unique player in the aviation sector. While the platform offers premium services, the airline has maintained to offer premium services, making it an attractive choice for travelers seeking a more comfortable flying experience without the hefty price tag.
The airline’s emphasis on quality service combined with competitive pricing, has positioned it as a popular option for travelers looking for a balance between luxury and budget-friendly travel.
Other details
| IATA Code | UK |
| Reporting Time | 2.5 hours before the departure |
| In-Flight meals | Offers hot meals for all economy passengers on domestic flights commencing more than 1 hour, economy lite gets additional services. |
| Baggage Allowance | Up to 15 kg for check-in and 7 kg for cabin |
| Extra Baggage charges | For every additional weight, you will be charged INR 550 per kg. Pre-booking online can save you a lot of money. |
| Pets Allowed | Allow only guide dogs |
Air India
When it comes to the best airline in India, Air India always makes its place on the list of the airlines in India. Established in 1932, the airline is one of the oldest airlines operating domestically and internationally. It offers some of the cheapest fares while also offering the most luggage capacity among all the airlines which is highly appreciated by the travellers.
All the facilities including the service, free meals, and extra baggage make it one of the top 7 best airlines in India.
| IATA Code | AI |
| Reporting Time | 1 hour before departure |
| In-flight meals | Provides complimentary refreshments |
| Baggage Allowance | For economy 25 kg is free. Passengers who are dependent on a wheelchair or other assistive devices are allowed additional baggage of 15 kg free of cost |
| Extra baggage charges | The extra baggage charge is INR 600 per kg plus applicable GST |
| Allows Pets | Allows pet animals |
Air India Express
Another low-cost airline, Air India Express a subsidiary of Air India, specializes in affordable domestic and international flights. Started in 2005, the airline primarily connects India with the Middle East and Southeast Asia. It has become one of the top 7 affordable airlines in India by offering amazing services and decent prices.
Air India Express allows users to explore international destinations without straining their budgets. Apart from that, the airline’s commitment to punctuality and efficiency has made it a popular choice among budget-conscious international travelers.
| IATA Code | IX |
| Reporting time | 3 hours before departure |
| In-flight meals | Provides complimentary snacks and beverages, meals can be pre-booked on the website |
| Baggage allowance | On domestic flights, every passenger can carry 25 kg of check-in baggage, and only 1 cabin baggage of a maximum of 7kg is allowed |
| Extra baggage charges | For domestic flights, the excess baggage rate is INR 600 plus applicable GST per kg. If you pre-book excess |
| Allows pets | Pets can be shipped as cargo |
In conclusion, the Indian aviation industry has witnessed significant growth, with several affordable airlines making air travel accessible to a wider audience. These top 7 affordable airlines in India have not only transformed the way people travel but also played a crucial role in connecting different parts of the country and the world. As these airlines continue to innovate and expand their services, the future of budget-friendly air travel in India looks promising, ensuring that more people can experience the joy of flying without straining their wallets. Also, check out the list of the best apps and sites for flight bookings in India here.