Air India Express is a low-cost airline based in Kochi, Kerala, India. It operates as a subsidiary of Air India, providing international and domestic flights, primarily connecting Indian cities with the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Known for its affordable fares and efficient service, Air India Express aims to cater to the budget-conscious traveler, offering a no-frills flying experience.
Services
- In-flight Meals : Air India Express offers complimentary meals on board, featuring a variety of Indian and international cuisine options, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
- Baggage Allowance : Generous baggage policies with 20 kg of free checked baggage on international flights, allowing travelers to carry more without extra costs.
- Onboard Shopping : Passengers can purchase duty-free products from a curated selection of items available during the flight.
- Seat Selection : Offers the option to pre-select seats, including extra legroom seats, allowing passengers to choose their preferred seating arrangements for a more comfortable journey.
- Online Check-in : Enables passengers to check in online up to 48 hours before departure, reducing wait times and providing a hassle-free airport experience.
Expriences
- Sachin Tendulkar : Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar praised Air India Express for its punctuality and courteous staff during his trip to Dubai.
- Deepika Padukone : Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone mentioned her pleasant experience with the airline’s efficient service during her travel to Kuala Lumpur.
- A. R. Rahman : Music composer A. R. Rahman appreciated the airline's in-flight comfort and the quality of meals served during his trip to Singapore.
Interesting Facts
- Fleet Size : Air India Express operates a fleet of 24 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, designed for short to medium-haul flights.
- First Flight : The airline's inaugural flight was on April 29, 2005, from Thiruvananthapuram to Abu Dhabi.
- Operational Hubs : Main operational hubs are located in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode.
- Safety Record : The airline has a commendable safety record with a strong emphasis on passenger safety and operational efficiency.
- Connectivity : Known for connecting smaller Indian cities directly with international destinations, enhancing regional connectivity.
Frequent Flyers
- Narendra Modi : Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has frequently used Air India Express for official travel, praising its punctuality and efficiency.
- Shahrukh Khan : Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan frequently travels with Air India Express, appreciating its connectivity to Dubai.
- Amitabh Bachchan : Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan has commended the airline for its comfort and service during his trips.
- Priyanka Chopra : Actress Priyanka Chopra has used the airline for quick trips to the Middle East, citing convenience. Read more
- Virat Kohli : Cricketer Virat Kohli enjoys the airline’s service on his trips to Southeast Asia.
Myths
- Limited Routes : It’s a myth that Air India Express only flies to the Middle East; it also serves Southeast Asian destinations.
- Poor Service : Contrary to some beliefs, the airline is known for its efficient and friendly service.
- Hidden Charges : There are no hidden charges; all costs are transparently displayed during booking.
Offbeat Destinations
- Al Ain : A lesser-known destination in UAE, offering stunning oases and historic forts.
- Ras Al Khaimah : Known for its beautiful mountains and beaches, a hidden gem in the UAE.
- Yanbu : A port city in Saudi Arabia, known for its coral reefs and diving spots.
- Taif : A city in Saudi Arabia, famous for its beautiful roses and pleasant climate.
- Mangalore : Coastal city in India, known for its beaches and temples.
- Tiruchirappalli : An Indian city with historic temples and a rich cultural heritage.
- Kochi : A vibrant port city in India, known for its colonial architecture and spice markets.
- Nagpur : Central Indian city known for its oranges and historic sites.
- Coimbatore : An industrial city in India, with scenic landscapes and pleasant weather.
- Vijayawada : A city in India with historical landmarks and vibrant cultural scenes.
Useful Resources
Awards
- Best Low-Cost Airline : Recognized multiple times at various aviation award ceremonies for being the best low-cost airline in India.
- Safety Awards : Received several awards for maintaining high safety standards in operations.