Air India launches Basic fare on select domestic routes

Air India announced a new ‘Basic’ fare family for Economy Class passengers on a pilot basis across select domestic routes. The fare offers a 15 kg checked‑baggage allowance, a 7 kg cabin‑baggage allowance and complimentary tea or coffee, while complimentary meals are excluded. Travelers may pre‑purchase meals up to 24 hours before departure and receive refunds or transfers if schedules change.

The Basic fare joins the airline’s existing Value, Classic and Flex fare families, giving price‑conscious passengers the option to pay only for services they need. Air India said the offering is optional and will be evaluated based on customer response before any wider rollout. The move is part of broader cost‑cutting measures after losses of about $2.8 billion in FY26 and reductions in both domestic and international capacity.

The pilot is being run through Air India’s direct booking channels, including its website, mobile app, contact centre and airport ticket offices.