Air India on Tuesday announced a ‘Basic’ fare category for passengers on select domestic routes in a move to reduce fare for ‘price-conscious travellers’.

While passengers will be given 15 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of on-board baggage, free meals will not be included, the airline said.
She said the optional price range is designed for price-conscious travelers who prefer unbundled services.
Read also: Air India Express flight with 180 passengers returns to Kannur after pilots detect technical problem mid-air
“The base fare rollout builds on Air India’s branded fare families – Value, Classic and Flexible – which were introduced in 2024 as part of the airline’s efforts to simplify and enhance its customer offerings,” the airline’s statement said.
What has changed with the new procedure?
The “Basic” fare category will be optional for passengers, and passengers will still have the option to book across fare categories, including Value, Classic and Flexible.
“Offering the base fare simply adds another layer of choice, especially for price-conscious passengers who prefer a more unbundled offer,” the Air India statement said.
Also read: Noida Airport to start international flights by year-end: CEO Neetu Samra | interview
However, if a passenger has booked the “Basic” fare category, there will still be the option to pre-purchase meals up to 24 hours before departure.
She added that in the event of a schedule change or re-accommodation, previously purchased meals will be automatically transferred to the new flight, or fully refunded if unavailable.
The ‘Basic’ fare is currently available on selected domestic lines. The airline said it will evaluate customer response and feedback during the trial phase and decide according to the responses.

