Air India Express Flight Booking

Tips: Pre-book excess baggage to avoid higher airport fees. Verify allowances for connecting flights to ensure compliance.

Special Equipment

Tips: Contact Air India Express customer service at least 48 hours before travel to arrange for special equipment or assistive devices.

Damaged or Lost Baggage

• Reporting: Report damaged or lost baggage immediately at the airport’s baggage claim area. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with flight details, baggage tags, and photos of damage.
• Tracking: Use the WorldTracer system to track lost baggage. Air India Express supports Apple AirTag for locating delayed or lost baggage.
• Liability: The airline is not liable for valuables in checked baggage. Passengers are advised to carry important items in cabin baggage.

Air India Express Boarding Pass Policy

The Air India Express boarding pass policy is designed to streamline the check-in process and ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers. 

Obtaining a Boarding Pass

• Issuance:

1. Domestic Flights: Passengers receive a digital boarding pass upon completing online check-in, which can be saved as a mobile boarding pass on a smartphone or downloaded as a printable PDF. The boarding pass must be presented at airport checkpoints, either digitally or printed.
2. International Flights: Passengers receive a confirmation slip instead of a traditional boarding pass after online check-in. This slip, along with valid identification (e.g., passport), must be presented at the airport check-in counter for verification and issuance of the final boarding pass.

• Format: The boarding pass includes essential details such as the passenger’s name, flight number, seat assignment, departure time, and boarding gate. For codeshare flights, an e-ticket is issued instead of an Itinerary Receipt (ITR), and passengers must follow the operating airline’s boarding pass policy.

Check-In Options for Boarding Pass

Online Check-In:

• Available 48 hours to 60 minutes before departure for domestic flights and up to 2 hours for international flights via the Air India Express website (www.airindiaexpress.com) or mobile app.
• Process:
1. Visit the “Check-in” section on the website or app.
2. Enter the Booking Reference (PNR) and last name to retrieve booking details.
3. Select a seat from the available seat map (subject to availability; extra legroom or exit row seats may incur additional charges).
4. Complete the check-in process and download the digital boarding pass or confirmation slip. An e-boarding pass is also sent to the registered email address.
• Benefits: Allows passengers to bypass long check-in queues, pre-select seats, and manage baggage options (e.g., pre-book excess baggage or meals). Passengers with only carry-on baggage can proceed directly to security for domestic flights after online check-in.
• Limitations: Not available for codeshare flights, passengers requiring special assistance (e.g., unaccompanied minors, those with special needs), or flights with specific restrictions. These passengers must check in at the airport counter for document verification.

• Available at select airports, such as Terminal T3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi for Australia-bound flights. Domestic passengers across India can use kiosks for self-check-in and to obtain a boarding pass.
• Process: Enter booking details (PNR and last name), select a seat, and print the boarding pass. Passengers with checked baggage can use self-baggage drop facilities where available or proceed to the check-in counter for baggage tagging.

• Available at Air India Express check-in counters, which close 60 minutes before departure for both domestic and international flights. Boarding gates close 20 minutes before departure.
• Passengers must present their Itinerary Receipt (ITR) or e-ticket, along with valid identification (e.g., Aadhaar for domestic, passport for international). Staff will verify documents, tag checked baggage, and issue the boarding pass.
• Recommended for passengers with special equipment, excess baggage, or those requiring assistance.

Boarding Pass Requirements

• Identification:

• Domestic Travel: The name on the boarding pass must match the passenger’s valid ID (e.g., Aadhaar, voter ID, or other acceptable identification).

• International Travel: The name must match the passport exactly. Passengers with a single name on travel documents may face restrictions in certain countries (e.g., UAE). 

• Advance Passenger Information (API): For international flights, passengers may need to provide API details. Failure to obtain API approval may result in denied boarding, with the option for a free date change to the next available flight (fare difference may apply).

• Name Corrections: Limited to one correction per passenger, not permitted within 24 hours of departure. A new booking with applicable fare differences may be required.

Special Considerations

• After online check-in, passengers with checked baggage must visit the check-in counter or self-baggage drop (where available) for baggage tagging. Staff will verify the boarding pass/confirmation slip and ID before tagging baggage.
• The Xpress Ahead service offers priority check-in, boarding, and baggage delivery for a fee, enhancing the travel experience.

Tips for Passengers

• Verify Details: Ensure the name on the booking matches the ID exactly to avoid boarding issues. Double-check visa and documentation requirements for international travel.
• Early Check-In: Complete online check-in early to secure preferred seats and avoid last-minute issues. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
• Digital Convenience: Save the mobile boarding pass for domestic flights to streamline security checks. For international flights, carry a printed confirmation slip and passport.

Contact Support: For queries or assistance, contact the 24/7 Air India Express Contact Centre at +91 124 443 5600 or +91 124 443 5601, or use the online Customer Support Portal.

Air India Express Top Domestic Routes

Air India Express has significantly expanded its domestic network, with Bengaluru as its largest hub, operating close to 65 daily departures. The following are among the top domestic routes based on weekly one-way seat capacity as of April 2025:

Details: Connects two major IT and industrial hubs, with consistent business travel demand, using a mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

Additional Emerging Routes:

• Trichy to Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kochi: Recent expansions from Tiruchirappalli have boosted domestic connectivity, with daily flights transforming Trichy airport’s traffic to an average of 3,000 daily domestic passengers.
• Hindon to Goa, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Jammu, Chennai: Air India Express operates 40 weekly flights from Hindon Airport, enhancing connectivity from Ghaziabad to major cities.
• Chennai to Varanasi, Patna: Daily flights launched from March 30, 2025, challenging IndiGo’s dominance on these routes.
• Hyderabad to Amritsar, Kochi, Lucknow, Gwalior: Daily and thrice-weekly flights introduced from Hyderabad, expanding its domestic network.

Air India Express Top International Routes

Air India Express serves 17 international destinations, with a strong focus on the UAE and Saudi Arabia, catering to the Indian diaspora and leisure travelers. The following are key international routes based on frequency and strategic importance:

Details: Recently introduced routes connecting Bengaluru to Thailand, targeting leisure travelers, operated with Boeing 737 MAX-8s.

Strategic Focus

• Bengaluru Hub: Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport is the cornerstone of Air India Express’s network, with a majority of top domestic routes originating or terminating there. Its strategic location supports connectivity to both South India and Southeast Asia.
• Tier II and Diaspora Focus: The airline prioritizes Tier II cities (e.g., Trichy, Kannur, Mangaluru) and routes with high leisure and diaspora demand, complementing Air India’s long-haul network.
• Fleet: The routes are operated with a diverse fleet of Airbus A320-200s, A320neos, A321neos, and Boeing 737 MAX-8s, enabling flexibility and efficiency.
• Expansion: Recent additions like Hindon, Trichy, and Chennai routes reflect Air India Express’s focus on expanding connectivity to smaller cities and challenging competitors like IndiGo.

Data Accuracy: Route frequencies and capacities are subject to seasonal changes and operational adjustments. 

Air india express cancellation charges

Air India Express Group Booking

Air India Express also offers a convenient Group Booking facility for travellers flying in groups of 10 or more on the same flight. Whether it's a family vacation, business trip, school tour, or religious pilgrimage, this service is designed to make group travel easier and more cost-effective. With special group fares, flexible payment terms, and dedicated assistance, Air India Express ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience from booking to boarding.

Air India Express Business Class (Xpress Biz)

Air India Express also offers a premium travel option called Xpress Biz, its version of Business Class. It is designed for travelers who seek extra comfort without the high cost of traditional business class, Xpress Biz provides enhanced services and added convenience on select routes.

Key Features of Xpress Biz:

• Spacious Seating: Wider seats with extra legroom and greater recline for a more relaxed journey.
• Priority Services: Enjoy priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling, helping you skip the queues and save time.
• Complimentary Meals: Passengers in Xpress Biz are served premium Gourmair hot meals curated by chefs, along with beverages during the flight.
• Increased Baggage Allowance: Extra checked baggage and cabin baggage allowance for added convenience.
• Enhanced Comfort: Onboard amenities like pillows and blankets are available on select flights, making long-haul travel more comfortable.

Ideal For:

• Business travelers
• Leisure passengers looking for affordable luxury
• Frequent flyers who value comfort and time

Note: Xpress Biz is available only on select Air India Express aircraft and routes. Availability may vary based on fleet configuration and sector.

Xpress Biz bridges the gap between full-service business class and low-cost travel, making it a smart choice for passengers seeking comfort and value.

Air India Express Ticket Price

->Base Fares:

Domestic Flights: Start as low as ₹1,330 for Xpress Lite fares (e.g., Bengaluru to Kochi) during promotional sales, with regular fares typically ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹8,000 depending on the route, demand, and booking window. 

International Flights: Fares begin at around ₹6,572 (e.g., Delhi to Muscat) and can go up to ₹8,588 (e.g., Mumbai to Doha) or AED 220 (approx. ₹4,900) for Abu Dhabi to Mumbai. Prices vary by destination, with Gulf routes being the most affordable.

1. Xpress Lite: Cabin baggage-only (7 kg), with an option to add 3 kg free during sales. Check-in baggage costs extra (e.g., ₹1,000 for 15 kg domestic, ₹1,300 for 20 kg international).
2. Xpress Value: Includes 15 kg check-in baggage for domestic flights or up to 20/30/40 kg for international routes, depending on the destination.
3. Xpress Flex: Adds free rescheduling to Xpress Value benefits, ideal for flexible travel plans.
4. Xpress Biz: Business class with up to 58 inches of legroom, a complimentary Gourmair meal, and Xpress Ahead priority services (e.g., priority check-in, boarding, and baggage). Fares start at ₹8,500 for select routes.

FAQ – In‑Flight Food & Drinks

Q: Is food complimentary on Air India Express flights?

A: No. Air India Express does not offer complimentary meals. In the past, the airline provided a free snack box with tea or coffee, but that has been discontinued

Q What food is available onboard?

• Buy-on-board & Pre-booked meals: Travelers can purchase snacks, hot meals, fresh fruits, and beverages like tea, coffee, iced tea, and juices. Hot meals can be pre-booked—12 hours prior for domestic flights, and 24 hours before international flights
• Gourmair brand: Since June 22, 2023, Air India Express has introduced Gourmair, a curated menu designed by a celebrity chef, featuring MasterChef Specials, regional dishes, desserts, healthy options, and more. Meals cost between ₹300 and ₹600

Q: Can I still get a free snack if I don’t pre-book a meal?

A: No. The free snack box is no longer offered. Passengers-only have the option to buy onboard—without additional free snacks.

Q: What is Air India Express?

A: Air India Express is India’s low-cost international airline and a subsidiary of Air India. It offers affordable, no-frills services primarily on routes connecting India with the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Known for its competitive fares and reliable operations, Air India Express also provides optional add-ons like Xpress Flex, Gourmair meals, and extra baggage for enhanced travel convenience.

Q. How do I web check-in for Air India Express flights?

A: To web check-in for your Air India Express flight, visit the airline’s official website and select the “Web Check-in” option. Enter your booking reference and last name to access your itinerary. Web check-in opens 48 hours before departure and closes 2 hours before the flight for international routes and 1 hour for domestic routes.

Q. How can I cancel my Air India Express ticket?

A: You can cancel your Air India Express ticket through the "Manage Booking" section on the airline’s official website or through the OTA you booked with. Cancellation charges apply based on the fare type and the time of cancellation. Refunds (if applicable) will be processed as per the airline’s fare rules.

Q. Is Air India and Air India Express the same?

A: No, Air India and Air India Express are separate airlines under the same parent company. Air India is a full-service international carrier offering premium services, while Air India Express is a low-cost carrier focused on affordable short and medium-haul routes, especially between India and the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and select domestic sectors.