Air India is the national airline of India and one of the oldest carriers in the country, with a history that dates back to 1932. Renowned for its warm hospitality and extensive network, Air India serves over 18 million travelers annually, offering a range of options from economy to business class.
Booking an Air India ticket online is now the easiest and most convenient way to plan your trip. Instead of standing in long queues or calling travel agents, you can simply use your phone or computer to check flights, compare prices, and choose the schedule that fits your plans, all from wherever you are. Even access exclusive discounts or promo codes that airlines often offer only on their websites.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to book your Air India ticket online, along with practical tips to help you save more while you’re at it.
About Air India
Founded by J.R.D. Tata Air India began as Tata Airlines and is known as India’s most iconic and trusted airline. With a workforce of over 12,000 employees worldwide, Air India operates a vast network that spans 79 destinations, including 59 non-stop international routes. It currently holds nearly 30% of India’s international air traffic market share, making it one of the leading players in the country’s aviation industry.
How to Book Air India Tickets Online (Step-by-Step Guide)
Booking an Air India ticket online is quick, easy, and can be done from anywhere—whether you’re at home, at work, or even on the move. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Enter the Official Website of Air India or Download the Mobile App
Go to www.airindia.com or download the official Air India mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2: Enter Your Travel Details
On the homepage, you’ll find the flight search section. Fill in:
- From and To cities
- Departure date and Return date (if it’s a round trip)
- Number of passengers
- Preferred travel class (Economy, Premium Economy, or Business)
Step 3: Search for Flights
Click on the search button to see available flights that match your criteria. You’ll get a list of options with different timings, prices, and classes.
Step 4: Select Your Flight
Browse through the options and pick the flight that best fits your schedule and budget. You can also check flight duration and layover details, if any.
Step 5: Enter Passenger Details
Fill in the required passenger information, including full names as per ID, contact details, and any frequent flyer numbers.
Step 6: Choose Your Seat and Add Extras
Once you select your flight, you can choose your preferred seat (if available) and add any extras like meals or additional baggage.
Step 7: Review Your Booking
Before moving to the payment step, take a moment to review your booking details carefully. Double-check flight timings, passenger names, add-ons, and the total fare. This ensures everything is accurate before finalizing.
Step 8: Additional Services
Air India allows you to customize your journey further with helpful add-ons. You can choose from:
- Preferred Seat Selection
- Pre-paid Baggage Options (for extra luggage)
- SPORTS EQUIPMENT transport
- In-flight Meal Preferences
- Wheelchair Assistance for passengers needing special support
- ZIPAHEAD – a priority check-in and baggage handling service
Step 9: Make Payment
Proceed to the payment page and select your preferred payment method—credit/debit card, net banking, UPI, or wallets. Complete the payment securely.
Step 10: Receive Confirmation
After successful payment, you’ll receive an e-ticket and booking confirmation via email and SMS. Make sure to save or print your ticket for travel.
Saving Tips for Booking Air India Flights
1. Check out GrabOn
Before booking, check GrabOn for the latest Air India coupon codes and deals. The platform regularly updates verified offers, including flat discounts, cashback, and exclusive codes for website and app bookings.
2. Armed Forces Concession
Active and retired personnel from India’s Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary, and other recognized forces are eligible for discounted base fares on domestic economy class tickets. Eligible family members include spouses, dependent children (aged 2–26), and dependent parents.
- You’ll need a valid military or dependent ID.
3. Senior Citizen Discount
If you’re 60 years or older and an Indian national with permanent residency, you just need to carry a valid photo ID with your date of birth.
- Up to 25% off on base fares for domestic economy flights
- Rs. 400 to Rs. 500 flat off when you use UPI as payment and apply the promo code “UPIPROMO”
4. Child & Infant Discounts
Infants (aged 7 days to under 2 years) and children (2–12 years) are eligible for discounts, and they must carry valid ID proof such as an Aadhaar card for domestic travel or a passport for international flights.
- 10% discount on base fares in economy class
- 25% discount in business or first class
5. Student Discounts – Domestic and International
Students aged 12 and above (up to 30 years for international travel) who are enrolled in full-time courses at recognized institutions can enjoy special discounts by providing valid documents such as a student ID, admission letter, or a student visa.
Domestic Flights:
- Up to 25% off on base fare
- Extra 10 kg baggage allowance
- One free date change
- Extra discount using promo code UPIPROMO (Rs. 400 to Rs. 500 off)
International Flights:
- Special base fare discounts
- Additional baggage up to 50 kg, depending on cabin class
- Free date change with fare difference
6. Humanitarian Concessionary Fares
Passengers eligible for humanitarian concessions can book discounted economy class fares for domestic travel by providing the required documentation to avail of the discount. This includes:
- Blind individuals (certificate from MBBS or eye specialist)
- Locomotor disabilities (80 %+) (certificate from government hospital/CMO)
- Cancer patients (valid certificate from a cancer hospital for treatment-related travel)
7. Bharat Ratna Awardee Discount
Air India honors Bharat Ratna recipients with a special concession on base fares for economy class travel within India. To avail this benefit, bookings must be made in person at an Air India ticketing office, along with a copy of the award certificate signed by the President of India.
8. Avail of Bank Deals
You can save more on your Air India bookings by using bank offers and the right payment methods. Pay via UPI and get up to Rs. 2,500 off, or use Net Banking and get up to Rs. 1,200 off. You can also get a flat 5% cashback with select credit cards.
Join the Air India Maharaja Club & Get Exclusive Perks
The Maharaja Club is Air India’s official loyalty program designed to reward frequent flyers with exclusive benefits, added comfort, and exciting privileges.
Why Join the Maharaja Club?
When you fly with Air India or any of the 24 Star Alliance partner airlines, you earn Maharaja Points and Tier Points. These points can be used for:
- Free (Award) Flights
- Cabin Upgrades
- Extra baggage
- Access to airport lounges and more.
You can even pool points with family, and your points never expire as long as you’re an active member.
Membership Tiers and Benefits
There are four tiers in the Maharaja Club, and each tier offers more benefits as you move up:
| Red Tier (Entry Level) | Silver Tier | Gold Tier | Platinum Tier |
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Bonus Perk: Book directly on the Air India website or app and get 2 extra points per ₹100
Additional Perks at the Maharaja Club
- Priority Check-in & Boarding
- Cabin Upgrade Vouchers
- Access to 1,000+ Lounges
- No blackout dates for redeeming points
- ZIPAHEAD service (priority check-in and baggage)
- Wheelchair assistance, prepaid baggage, and partner offers from hotels, brands, and more.
Key Takeaways
Booking an Air India ticket online is simple, convenient, and user-friendly. With just a few clicks, you can plan your journey, choose your seat, and manage your travel preferences—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re flying domestic or international, Air India’s website and app make the entire booking experience smooth and hassle-free. Hope you found this article helpful, and it makes your next Air India booking experience quick and easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to book a flight ticket online in India?
You can book a flight ticket online in India through trusted travel platforms like MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, Yatra, IRCTC Air, or Paytm Travel. Just enter your departure and arrival cities, travel dates, number of passengers, and travel class. Then, browse through the options, choose your preferred flight, and complete the booking with a secure payment.
Is it better to book directly with Air India?
Yes, booking directly with Air India can be a smart choice. You may find exclusive deals, enjoy better flexibility with changes or cancellations, and have access to special services that third-party sites might not offer.
What are the steps to booking a flight online?
- Step 1: Visit a flight booking website or the airline’s official site.
- Step 2: Enter your travel details like departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and number of passengers.
- Step 3: Browse the available flights and choose one that fits your schedule and budget.
- Step 4: Proceed to payment and complete the booking securely.
- Step 5: Once confirmed, you’ll receive an email with your e-ticket and booking details.
How to book seats on Air India?
You can book your seat on Air India while purchasing your ticket, during web check-in, or through the “Manage Booking” section on their website or app. You also have the option to select preferred seats or purchase extra seats based on availability.
Does Air India provide free food?
Yes, Air India offers complimentary meals on both domestic and international flights. The Passengers can enjoy a variety of meal options, including vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and special meals, depending on their dietary preferences.
