Best Domestic Airlines in India

India is one of the most prominent and attractive countries, with affordable travel options, leading to rapid growth in Air Traffic, as most people seek the most convenient and affordable travel. So, Domestic Airlines in India have become the most reliable transportation option, offering connectivity and comfort, including to the country's remotest areas. Whether you are seeking to travel within the country for a Business or leisure trip, you will find several domestic flight options. Significantly, in this comprehensive travel guide, passengers will find the list of the Top 9 Domestic Airlines in India that feature plenty of amenities and other services to stand out as one of the best domestic airlines in India.

Top 9 Domestic Airlines in India

1. IndiGo

IndiGo is a low-cost airline headquartered in Gurgaon. It is one of the largest Airlines in terms of passengers carried, with more than 100 million passengers and a fleet size. Therefore, it operates daily flights to 125 destinations, including 90 domestic and 35 international. It is one of the top airlines for domestic travel in India due to its punctuality, affordability, and extensive network. It began operations in 2006 and became the largest and most popular airline in 2012.

Pros:

• Low-Fares
• Different Fare types like Saves, Flexi Plus, and Super 6E fare
• Enjoy an additional discount while booking an unaccompanied minor or student

Cons:

• Strict baggage policy with high baggage charges
• Poor customer service
• Lack of In-Flight amenities
• Inconsistent seat assignment

2. Air India

Air India's central hub is Indira Gandhi International Airport, and its second hub is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Therefore, this prominent Airline is owned by the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines. Air India, founded in 1932, operates flights to nearly 102 domestic destinations using a variety of aircraft, including Airbus and Boeing. It is well known for its iconic Maharaja mascot among India's Top 10 domestic airlines.

Pros:

• Complimentary Meals
• Liquor and Wine
• Amenity Kits
• Loyalty Program Perks

Cons:

• Delayed Flight
• Excess baggage charges
• Fewer in-flight services

3. SpiceJet

SpiceJet is one of the favourite Airlines, especially for domestic routes, as it offers low fares to approximately 46 cities across India. In addition, it is the sixth-largest Airline in India by total number of passengers carried. Consequently, it was established as an Air Taxi Provider in 1994; however, in 2004, it was acquired by Ajay Singh.

Pros:

• Pocket-Friendly Fares
• User-Friendly website
• Complimentary meals
• Earn points on Airfare

Cons:

• Poor Customer service
• Uncomfortable Seats

4. Akasa Air

Akasa Air is India's low-cost airline. Vinay Dube and Aditya Ghosh founded it, and investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala holds a 46% stake in the Airline. Therefore, Akasa Airlines' first flight took off on 7 August 2022 from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, and it instantly gained popularity in domestic travel.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Substantial
• Personalised meet and greet services
• Akasa Air offers in-flight plant-based services
• Frequent Flyer Program

Cons:

• Not offering complimentary in-flight meals and entertainment services
• Additional charges for extra baggage
• Lack of International flight rights

5. Go First

Go First Airline, also known as GoAir, is based in Mumbai and is owned by the Indian Business Conglomerate Wadia Group. Significantly, Go First commenced operations with an Airbus A320 on its inaugural flight from Mumbai to Ahmedabad on 4 November 2005. The airline is best known for its transparent services, affordable prices, and on-time performance.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly fares
• Good customer service
• On-time performance
• Low flight cancellation
• Safety and security

Cons: 

• Undoubtedly, airlines also have a few cons, which are listed below
• Poor Financial Management
• Lack of responsiveness
• Frequent Flight Cancellation

6. AIX Connect

AIX Connect was formerly recognised as the Indian low-cost airline headquartered in Bangalore; it was founded as a joint venture between Tata Sons and AirAsia Bhd. The airline operates over 100 daily flights to more than 15 destinations in India. Besides that, the airline is well-recognised for its connectivity, affordable fares, convenient flight schedules, and vibrant branding.

Pros:

• Prioritize safety
• Customer support
• Affordable fares
• Environmental responsibility

Cons:

• Low on-time performance
• Does not have a large fleet
• Does not provide connectivity to numerous destinations

7. Alliance Air

Alliance Air is entirely a subsidiary of Air India; however, the Airline was founded in 1996 and later merged with Air India in 2011. Significantly, the Airline operates mainly on domestic routes under the Government's Regional Connectivity Scheme and offers low fares to approximately 44 destinations. Although the Alliance Air operated its first international flight from Chennai to Jaffna on 11 November 2019.

Pros:

• Comfortable, relaxing seats
• Young Fleet of Environmentally Friendly Aircrafts
• There are no middle seats
• Efficient services
• Best connectivity for short-haul flights

Cons:

• Frequent Flight Cancellation
• Poor Customer service
• Unreliable Performance

8. Air India Express:

Air India Express is an Indian flag carrier headquartered in Gurgaon. It is one of the top-notch domestic airlines, offering the best connectivity on domestic routes at low fares. Therefore, the airline operates flights up to 2000 per week to nearly 46 destinations across India. With low fares, Air India Express is an affordable airline in India that serves major domestic routes.

Pros:

• Affordable fares
• Comfortable seats
• Loyalty Program

Cons:

• Poor customer service
• Delay flights
• Considerable disturbance over excess baggage

9. Star Air

Star Air is the best budget airline in India. Its base is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. In 2019, the Airline started operating flights within Karnataka and later expanded to other state routes under the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme; however, the Airline operates fleets like ERJ 145LRs and E-175s.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly fares
• Comfortable seatings
• Punctual Flights
• Competitive fares

Cons:

• Poor service
• Flight delays
• Flight cancellation
• Disappointing In-Flight experience

Conclusion:

India is a well-known tourist destination, which is why multiple airlines provide connectivity within the country; therefore, the top 10 domestic airlines in India are IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, Air India Express, Alliance Air, Star Air, GoFirst, AIX Connect, and SpiceJet. These airlines operate flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Gurgaon, Bangalore, and more.

FAQs

1. Which is the best domestic airline in India?

Ans. IndiGo is the best domestic airline in India, serving over 90 domestic destinations.

2. Which is the cheapest domestic airline in India?

Ans. Alliance Air is one of the cheapest domestic airlines, attracting numerous travellers at unbelievable prices.

3. Which airline offers the best In-Flight service in India?

Ans. IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Go First, Vistara, and Akasa Air are the top Indian domestic airlines known for their excellent in-flight services.

4. Which domestic airline in India is the most punctual?

Ans. IndiGo is a prominent domestic airline best known for its in-flight amenities and services, which elevate the traveller's experience.

5. Are meals included in domestic flights in India?

Ans. Generally, meals are included in most domestic flights in India, although several Airlines offer complimentary meals.

6. Which airline is best for long domestic flights in India?

Ans. For long routes, Indigo is considered one of the best airlines because it offers comfortable seats, complimentary in-flight meals, and entertainment.

7. Which airline has the most extensive domestic network in India?

Ans. IndiGo has India's most prominent, extensive, and significant network; however, it is the most preferred airline due to its affordable fares.

8.  Is it safe to fly with budget airlines in India?

Ans. Yes, flying with any of the budget airlines mentioned in India is undoubtedly safe, as all airlines follow strict safety policies.

9. Which airline is best for business travellers in India?

Ans. For business travellers, Air India is considered the best Airline.

10. Can I select my seat for free on domestic flights in India?

Ans. Airlines charge additional fees for seat selection, which can be done during web check-in.

11. Which airline is best for first-time flyers in India?

Ans. For first-time flyers, IndiGo is counted as one of the best airlines in India.

13. Which airline offers the best loyalty program in India?

Ans. Vistara Airlines provides the best loyalty program in India.

14. How can I find the cheapest domestic flights in India?

Ans. Travellers can find the cheapest domestic flights on Travomint using a low-fare calendar.

15. Which airline is best for travelling to remote destinations in India?

Ans. IndiGo and Vistara are the best airlines offering flight connectivity to remote destinations in India.