Understanding the best times to book flights can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air follow unique pricing strategies, influenced by factors like demand, competition, and route popularity. By leveraging booking trends and knowing when and how to book, you can secure maximum discounts. This guide explores effective strategies and compares airlines worldwide, including popular Indian carriers
1. Book During Airline Sales
Airlines often host sales to boost bookings during periods of low demand. For example, IndiGo and SpiceJet regularly announce promotional fares, while Akasa Air, as a new player, frequently offers competitive pricing to attract travelers.
- Best Time to Book: Look for deals during major sales events or off-season periods, such as July to September.
- Why It Works: Airlines use discounts to fill flights during traditionally low-traffic times.
2. Keep an Eye on Dynamic Pricing
Dynamic pricing is common among Indian airlines like Indigo and Air India, where ticket prices fluctuate based on demand and seat availability. Prices are often lowest during the initial and mid-stages of ticket sales, but can rise sharply closer to the departure date.
- Best Practice: Book 30-90 days in advance for domestic routes, and 90-180 days in advance for international travel.
- Why It Works: Booking in the sweet spot before prices peak ensures savings.
3. Use Airline Loyalty Programs
Many airlines reward frequent flyers with loyalty points that can be redeemed for discounts or free tickets. Programs like IndiGo’s BluChip and Air India’s Maharaja Club help reduce future travel costs.
- Best Strategy: Enroll in loyalty programs and redeem points during promotions for added savings.
- Why It Works: These programs incentivize customer loyalty while providing significant long-term cost benefits.
4. Compare Airlines Based on Amenities and Costs
Indian airlines vary in their pricing and services. While IndiGo and Air India Express are known for affordability, Air India offers premium services at higher costs. Comparing these options ensures you find a balance between budget and comfort.
- Why It Works: A detailed comparison helps identify the best value for your preferences.
5. Take Advantage of Festive Offers
Festive seasons in India, such as Diwali, Holi, and New Year, often come with significant discounts on air travel. Airlines like SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Indigo frequently roll out special fares during these times. Want to save more? Use exclusive Indigo promo codes from GrabOn and get up to 15% off on flight tickets.
- Best Time to Book: Around 4-6 weeks before the festival to avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Why It Works: Airlines compete to attract travelers during the festive rush, offering discounts to fill seats early.
Airline Comparison Table: Indian and Global Airlines
| Airline | Best for | Starting Price | Key Features |
| IndiGo | Budget domestic travel | ₹2,000 | Wide network, punctual service |
| SpiceJet | Flash sales | ₹2,500 | Frequent sales, affordable baggage options |
| Air India | Long-haul flights | ₹4,000 | Global routes, additional baggage allowance |
| Delta Airlines | Premium global travel | $200 | SkyMiles rewards, extensive international routes |
| Ryanair | Ultra-low-cost European travel | $20 | Cheap fares, basic services |
| JetBlue | Domestic USA travel | $99 | Free Wi-Fi, great customer service |
| Southwest Airlines | Flexible booking | $49 | No change fees, generous baggage policy |
6. Consider Red-Eye Flights for Cheaper Fares
Late-night flights, also known as red-eye flights, often come with reduced prices due to lower demand. Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet operate several red-eye routes at discounted rates. Add SpiceJet coupons to the low-fare tickets and get additional savings.
- Best Practice: Check for flights departing between 10 PM and 6 AM.
- Why It Works: These flight timings are less popular, prompting airlines to lower fares to fill seats.
7. Utilize Regional Airlines for Short-Haul Routes
For regional or short-haul flights, airlines like Alliance Air or Star Air offer competitive pricing and convenient schedules.
- Why It Works: These airlines are tailored for domestic routes, often providing more direct and affordable options.
When planning your next trip, check out our blog on the Ultimate Money-Saving Budget Travel Guide for expert tips and tricks to cut down on travel expenses, including strategies to get the best deals on flights and hotels.
Summary Table: Best Booking Tips
| Tip | Domestic Flights | International Flights | Why It Works |
| Book in Advance | 1-3 months before departure | 3-6 months before departure | Early bookings secure lower fares. |
| Check Airline Sales | Around festive seasons | Year-round | Airlines offer deals during low-demand periods. |
| Travel Midweek | Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday | Tuesday, Wednesday | Midweek flights are less popular. |
| Leverage Red-Eye Flights | Late-night departures | Late-night departures | Lower demand reduces prices. |
| Compare Airlines | Across major Indian airlines | Across global carriers | Ensures the best value for money. |
Conclusion
Timing your flight bookings wisely can lead to substantial savings. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, and Akasa Air are excellent for domestic routes in India, while Delta Airlines, Ryanair, and JetBlue cater to international and regional travelers. Whether booking during a sale, traveling midweek, or leveraging loyalty programs, these strategies can help you fly affordably. For extra savings, don’t forget to check out flight coupons and offers available on GrabOn – there are deals for both domestic and international bookings. For the best experience, research specific pricing trends of your preferred airlines and book early to lock in the best deals.
Safe travels and happy savings!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to book flight tickets from India?
The ideal time to book domestic flights is 1 to 3 months in advance, while international flights are best booked 18 to 29 days before departure. Booking during off-peak months such as January, May, or September can also help you find cheaper fares.
Is it better to book a flight early or last minute?
Booking early is generally better for getting lower prices and more choices. Last-minute deals do exist, but are rare and risky, especially for international or peak-season travel.
Is it cheaper to call and book a flight?
Booking a flight by calling is usually not cheaper than booking online. Most airlines and travel agencies offer better deals, promo codes, and comparison tools on their websites or apps. Phone bookings may include additional service fees. However, calling might be helpful for complex itineraries or special requests, but it rarely results in lower prices.
What is the price drop hour for Indigo?
IndiGo doesn’t officially announce a price drop hour, but fares often adjust early on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings (around 3-6 AM IST). Using fare trackers or IndiGo’s fare calendar can help spot these drops.
