What is Air India's new 'Basic' fare category? No free meals, tea and coffee will be complimentary; trial begins on select domestic routes.
Air India has introduced a new, lower-priced 'Basic' fare category on select domestic routes. This offers passengers the opportunity to travel at a lower cost and pay only for the services they require. The airline stated that this fare category has been launched on a trial basis and is aimed at travelers who prefer budget-friendly travel options.
Under this new fare category, passengers will not receive complimentary in-flight meals; however, free tea or coffee will still be provided. Passengers wishing to have a meal on board can purchase one separately or pre-book it up to 24 hours before departure. Available meal options include vegetarian, non-vegetarian, Jain, and diabetic-friendly meals.
To ensure convenience, Air India has also implemented a flexible meal policy. If the flight schedule changes or a passenger is re-booked on a different flight, any pre-booked meal will automatically be transferred to the new flight. In instances where the meal cannot be provided, the airline will issue a refund.
The airline clarified that the introduction of the 'Basic' fare will not affect its existing fare categories. Passengers can continue to choose from 'Value', 'Classic', and 'Flex' fare options, all of which include complimentary meals.
Baggage allowances have also been defined for the 'Basic' fare. Passengers are permitted to carry up to 15 kg of check-in baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage.
Currently, basic fare category is available only on select domestic routes and can be booked via Air India’s website, mobile app, contact center, and airport ticket offices.
Air India stated that it will closely monitor customer feedback during the trial period before deciding whether to expand the 'Basic' fare across its entire network or implement it permanently.