Air India has revised its baggage policy for flights to Europe and the UK, resulting in higher charges for passengers who wish to check in a second bag. The changes, which took effect on October 17, align with the baggage policies of many international airlines, bringing Air India’s offerings more in line with those of its Western competitors. The new structure introduces various fare categories, each with differing baggage allowances. This shift reflects the airline’s ongoing efforts to modernize its service and pricing models, especially after being acquired by the Tata Group.
Under the updated policy, Air India’s economy class fares are divided into different “families,” with the most basic fare, known as the “value” fare, offering a single 23 kg checked baggage allowance. For passengers who need to check in a second bag, Air India now requires them to choose a higher fare class, with additional charges starting at approximately INR 4,000 for a one-way journey. This is a notable change from the airline’s previous approach, where a more generous baggage policy was in place, offering passengers more flexibility at a lower cost. However, with the revised system, passengers flying under the “value” fare will no longer be able to check in more than one bag unless they select a more expensive fare option.
This adjustment brings Air India’s baggage policy more in line with international carriers, such as Lufthansa and British Airways. Both of these airlines, which operate similar routes to Europe and the UK, provide passengers with the option to check in one bag on economy class flights, with additional charges for more luggage. Lufthansa, for example, only allows one checked bag in economy class, while British Airways offers fare levels with varying baggage allowances, including options for up to two checked bags. Air India’s decision to implement these changes is seen as an effort to make the airline’s offerings more competitive on the global stage, particularly as it works to revamp its service offerings following its privatization.
Air India’s revised baggage structure introduces three primary fare classes: “value,” “classic,” and “flex.” The “value” fare, the most affordable option, includes one checked bag and limited flexibility in terms of changes and cancellations. The “classic” and “flex” fare classes provide more generous baggage allowances, allowing passengers to check in up to two 23 kg bags. These higher-tier fares also offer greater flexibility, allowing travelers to make changes to their bookings without facing significant penalties. The airline hopes that by offering more flexible and affordable options, it can attract both price-conscious travelers and those seeking more comfort and convenience during their journey.
This policy shift is part of a broader strategy by Air India to modernize its offerings and improve customer experience. Since being taken over by the Tata Group, the airline has been making various efforts to modernize its services and enhance its competitiveness in the international market. The new baggage charges are intended to reflect international standards, and Air India’s leadership believes this restructuring will improve the airline’s operational efficiency and make it more attractive to both business and leisure travelers. In particular, the airline is working to enhance service quality, which had previously been an area of concern when Air India was state-owned, with passengers often citing issues with punctuality and cabin service.
Air India’s restructuring also includes improvements to its overall flight operations. The airline currently operates 264 weekly flights between India, Europe, and the UK, which are crucial routes for the carrier’s global operations. These changes come as part of the airline’s push to be more competitive in a growing market, with many passengers now looking for a better mix of price, flexibility, and overall service quality. The move to charge for additional baggage, while making travel less affordable for some, is designed to offer more pricing options for travelers and align Air India more closely with global standards.
The increase in baggage charges and the restructuring of fare categories reflect the changes taking place within Air India as it adapts to the realities of a competitive airline market. The airline is now under new ownership, and this baggage change is just one of the ways Air India is adjusting its strategy to cater to the needs of today’s global travelers. As it continues to grow and adapt, Air India hopes to improve its service offerings and enhance its position as a competitive player in the international aviation market.
