Is Air India Business Class Worth It? The Latest Upgrade Says Yes!

Air India (AI), India’s flag carrier, is a key player in global aviation. The airline operates a diverse fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, serving over 100 domestic and international destinations. AI is headquartered in Gurgaon, with its primary hub at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) and a secondary hub at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai). Since joining the Star Alliance in 2014, Air India has expanded its global connectivity. Under Tata Group ownership, it’s undergoing a major transformation to enhance passenger experience and competitiveness.

Is Air India business class worth it? Although Air India and its business class are currently rated as a 3-Star Airline by Skytrax, a well-regarded airline rating organization, fantastic improvements are anticipated. Recently, Air India embarked on a comprehensive transformation, marking the beginning of a new era for the airline. This major overhaul is supported by the Tata Group (one of India’s largest and most prominent business conglomerates) and Singapore Airlines:

• In November 2022, Singapore Airlines announced plans to merge Vistara, a highly-rated Indian airline by Skytrax, with Air India. The aim was to create a premier full-service airline across domestic and international markets. 
• In February 2023, Air India made history with a record-breaking order for 470 aircraft—250 from Airbus and 220 from Boeing—valued at $70 billion. The airline began receiving deliveries in late 2023, gradually deploying the new aircraft on domestic and international routes to enhance its service offerings.
• In August 2023, Air India introduced its new brand identity, featuring “The Vista”—a logo inspired by the iconic Indian window shape, symbolizing progress and limitless possibilities. The rebranding includes a refreshed livery with a deep red, aubergine, and gold color scheme, accented by a chakra-inspired pattern. The transformation extends to aircraft interiors, with modernized cabin designs across all classes.
• In November 2024, the Vistara-Air India merger was officially completed, with Vistara’s operations fully integrated into Air India. As a result, the Vistara brand was phased out, and the airline now operates solely under the Air India name.
• In December 2024, Air India expanded its fleet order with an additional 100 Airbus aircraft, including 10 A350 wide-body jets and 90 A320neo narrow-body planes. This brings the airline’s total new aircraft orders to 570, reinforcing its commitment to modernization and global expansion.
• As of February 11, 2025, Air India’s A350 fleet is operational on both domestic and international routes, elevating the airline’s service with next-generation aircraft.

These strategic moves are expected to significantly enhance the quality of Air India’s business class. This is likely to ensure modern aircraft, improved service standards, and a refreshed brand identity, ultimately offering a superior travel experience. So, what is Air India business class like? Explore the following details to discover more reasons to fly Air India business class.

Air India Airport Experience

What does Air India business class offer at the airport? Before flying Air India business class, head to the business-class check-in counters. One of the airline’s ground staff will assist you with your luggage and guide you to the lounge. The attendant will place your checked suitcase on the scale and hand your passport to the agent. They will swiftly check you in and provide your boarding pass along with an invitation to the Air India lounge.

Next, the ground staff will escort you to the immigration department, placing you in an expedited line for a quicker process. After clearing immigration, you’ll proceed through security, where the staff will ensure you reach the lounge. They will wait until you’re comfortably checked in at the lounge before thanking you and departing. No tipping is necessary, as their work vest clearly states “No tips accepted.” This seamless process ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your journey, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Air India Business Class Baggage Allowance

The checked baggage allowance for your flight depends on various factors such as travel class, fare family, route, and Flying Returns loyalty program status. For business class passengers, the allowance typically includes two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs). Hand baggage is limited to 10 kg.

For domestic business class flights within India, excess baggage charges are INR 600 per kg. For international business class flights, excess baggage fees range from USD 130 to 500, depending on the weight, size, or if there’s an extra piece. These allowances and charges ensure you can plan and pack appropriately for your journey.

Air India Lounges

To enhance its airport lounge experience, Air India partnered with Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), a renowned hospitality design firm. The aim was to revamp lounges at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Terminal 3, New Delhi) and JFK Airport (Terminal 4, New York).

As of February 2025, both refurbishments are complete and fully operational, offering premium passengers a more refined and comfortable experience. The redesigned lounges blend India’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary design. They feature luxurious seating, advanced entertainment options, dedicated workspaces, and an expanded selection of Indian and international cuisine. Following the successful relaunch, Air India plans to upgrade lounges at other major airports across India and globally.

Air India Business Class Cabins & Seats

Whether flying domestically or internationally, passengers can expect a vastly improved Air India experience in 2025 and beyond.

• Boeing 777-200LR and 777-300ER: Air India’s Boeing 777 fleet has retained a three-class layout across its older and newly acquired aircraft. While some aircraft still feature the legacy 2-3-2 business class, the airline’s recently acquired 777s. Previously operated by Etihad and Delta, they offer a mix of configurations. These aircraft serve key international routes, reinforcing Air India’s long-haul capabilities.
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner: The Boeing 787 Dreamliner continues to operate in a two-class layout, featuring economy class and business class (2-2-2 seating configuration). 
• Airbus A320ceo & A320neo Fleet: For domestic and regional flights, Air India maintains its A320 fleet, offering economy and business class configurations. 

With a rapidly expanding fleet, cutting-edge cabin enhancements, and premium service offerings, Air India is transforming into a top-tier global airline. As these improvements continue, travelers can look forward to an upgraded business class experience, enhanced comfort, and more competitive premium travel options.

Service

The airline has outlined specific customer service commitments in the US, underscoring its dedication to providing a consistently high level of service. Some of these commitments include:

• Cheapest Available Fares: The airline pledges to offer the lowest applicable fare for booking a flight based on the date and class of service requested.
• Notification of Delays, Cancellations, and Diversions: In the event of flight disruptions, the airline promises to inform customers within 30 minutes of becoming aware of any changes in flight status.
• Technological Enhancements: The airline has upgraded its technology with real-time flight and baggage tracking. You can enjoy a redesigned mobile app and website, offering a smoother user experience. Vista Stream is a complimentary wireless inflight entertainment service available on retrofitted aircraft.
• Assistance for Customers with Disabilities: Passengers with disabilities or limited mobility can notify the airline in advance regarding any special assistance needed before, during, or after their flight. The airline guarantees that well-trained employees will be available to support these customers.

These commitments reinforce the airline’s promise to deliver a high standard of customer service for all travelers.

Amenities

Air India continues its push to enhance passenger experience, addressing past criticisms of outdated seating and malfunctioning in-flight screens. As part of its service transformation, the airline has introduced elevated amenities and premium comforts on international flights.

• Luxury Amenity Kits & Sleepwear: First and business class passengers now receive exclusive Ferragamo amenity kits, featuring high-end skincare and travel essentials. Complementing these are sustainable loungewear by TUMI, crafted from a breathable cotton-recycled fabric blend, along with velour slippers.
• Enhanced Bedding and Dining: The airline has also refreshed its onboard comfort with lightweight, eco-friendly duvets and bed linens inspired by its rebranded global identity. The dining experience now features refined Chinaware, cutlery, and glassware, bringing a touch of elegance to every meal.

These enhancements are available on all widebody international flights, including the Boeing 777, 787, and the newly acquired Airbus A350s. With these upgrades, Air India aims to position itself as a premier choice for luxury travel, offering a more refined experience for discerning flyers.

Entertainment

Air India continues to enhance its in-flight entertainment (IFE) as part of its premium service transformation. With the introduction of new aircraft for medium- and long-haul routes, passengers across all cabins can now enjoy a significantly upgraded entertainment experience.

The airline first introduced Vista Stream, its wireless IFE system, on widebody aircraft in August 2024, later expanding it to narrowbody aircraft by December 2024. This upgrade allows travelers on both domestic and international flights to stream over 1,600 hours of content directly to their personal devices.

In November 2024, Air India became the first Indian airline to offer onboard Wi-Fi on select aircraft, including the Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, and Airbus A321neo. Currently, the service is available free of charge during its introductory phase.

Food

The airline has revamped its inflight food and beverage menus across all cabins on international flights to enhance the onboard experience based on guest feedback. This diverse and thoughtfully crafted menu is designed to provide a superior dining experience for all passengers. To achieve this, Air India assembled a team of in-house experts, catering partners, and multiple suppliers to create the new menu.

Air India now offers a variety of gourmet meals, trendy appetizers, and decadent desserts. They highlight India’s locally sourced culinary influences while adhering to healthy eating trends. First and business class passengers can now also choose from plant-based meal options such as Subz Seekh Kebab (vegetable kebabs), Thai Red Curry with Tofu and Vegetables, Broccoli and Millet Steak, and Lemon Sevaiyan Upma, as well as traditional dishes like Medu Wada (lentil fritter) and Masala Uttapam (lentil-based savory pancakes). The menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner across all classes features a mix of fusion dishes and classic favorites. 

Beverages

In addition to its revamped food offerings, Air India has also introduced a refreshed beverages menu across all cabins on international flights. The airline’s bar menu now features a selection of premium spirits and a new wine list, including esteemed French and Italian wines.

Passengers can now enjoy a sophisticated experience with offerings such as Laurent-Perrier La Cuvee Brut champagne and wines from renowned vineyards like Chateau de l’Hestrange, Les Oliviers, Chateau Milon, and the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. The new beverages menu also includes a range of premium whiskeys, gins, vodkas, and beers.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Air India offers a selection of mocktails. They include Virgin Mary, California Orange, Apple Spritzer, and various juices, providing a variety of flavors to enhance the fine dining experience on board.

Price

There are ways to secure exclusive deals and save significantly on travel expenses:

• Book Economy Class First: Purchase an economy class ticket in advance and consider upgrading it later. If you’re fortunate, the upgrade may cost only a small amount, significantly reducing the overall ticket price. Many seasoned travelers prefer this approach rather than directly purchasing business class tickets.
• Monitor Pricing Closely: Airfare prices can fluctuate daily. Business class tickets are often more affordable on weekends, while economy class tickets tend to be cheaper during the week. Set up price alerts to keep track of costs and purchase tickets when they become reasonable.
• Take Advantage of Discounts: Look for business class tickets during promotional periods when airlines offer attractive discounts. These promotions are available on both the airline website and through reputable ticketing agencies like AranGrant. By monitoring prices, you can find affordable business class tickets to India.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the luxury of Air India’s business class while keeping your travel expenses in check.

Air India Upgrade to Business Class

Air India passengers have 2 options to upgrade their travel class for a more luxurious experience:

• The Bidding Program (Upgrade+): Passengers with confirmed bookings in economy or premium economy can place a bid to upgrade to the next higher class, such as business class or first class. This process allows passengers to specify the amount they are willing to pay for the upgrade. If the bid is successful, passengers are notified and the upgrade is confirmed. If not, no payment is made, and the passenger retains their original booking class.
• Upfront Upgrade at the Airport: Passengers can also opt for an upgrade at the airport during check-in using Air India’s Get Upfront Upgrade offer. This option allows you to upgrade to a higher class for an additional fee, subject to seat availability.

Overall Impression

The airport experience is excellent, thanks to the personal assistance you’ll receive at check-in. The crew are courteous and competent, and the flight itself is comfortable. Considering that Air India’s fares are often more affordable than those of its competitors, you can enjoy a decent amount of sleep in a lie-flat seat. Given the airline’s proactive strategy to enhance its overall service, savvy travelers should keep an eye on Air India’s evolving business class offerings.