- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 16 Jun 2026 09:59 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Air India on Tuesday said it is bringing its 'Basic Fare' option to some of its domestic routes, allowing customers the opportunity to pay less for their travel in exchange for being offered no free food. The move comes as airlines look to manage rising operational costs and ongoing financial pressures.
Under this category, passengers will continue to receive a 15 kg checked baggage allowance along with a 7 kg cabin baggage limit and complimentary beverage service (tea/coffee). However, complimentary in-flight meals will not be part of the offering.
The airline has further stated that these Basic fares will be entirely optional and that current categories, value, classic, and flex would continue to be available to the traveller. These fare types continue to include complimentary meals and progressively higher bundled benefits depending on the fare level.
The Basic fare has been introduced as an additional option for travellers who prefer a more unbundled and budget-friendly travel experience, rather than replacing existing fare families.
Air India clarified that, "Being trialled on select domestic routes, the Basic fare is available for travel in Economy Class and is designed for travellers who prioritise value," as quoted by Air India newsroom.
The airline further added, "The Basic fare is entirely optional, and travellers continue to have the choice of booking across Air India’s existing fare families - Value, Classic, and Flex - each of which includes complimentary meals and a range of bundled benefits at progressively higher price points. The introduction of Basic fare simply adds another layer of choice, particularly for price-conscious travellers who prefer a more unbundled offering," it added.
Passengers opting for the Basic fare would still be able to pre-book meals up to 24 hours prior to the departure of the flight. Meals that are pre-booked will either be automatically rerouted along with the passenger on the new schedule, or a refund for the meal will be issued if it is not available.
The carrier also added that the Basic fare is currently being piloted on a few domestic routes and that the fare would be continued post a review of the results and customer feedback.
Under this category, passengers will continue to receive a 15 kg checked baggage allowance along with a 7 kg cabin baggage limit and complimentary beverage service (tea/coffee). However, complimentary in-flight meals will not be part of the offering.