Air India

[Argus]

We're planning a family trip from Oz to India next year. Air India fares are considerably cheaper than any other airline. Is there a trap for young players here?


Thanks in advance for any hints.

[Metro man]

If something is a lot cheaper than the competition there is usually a reason for it. Air India consistently get poor passenger reviews on websites such as Skytrax. Expect poor service, a dirty aircraft interior, shabby cabin furnishings, non working IFE, delays etc.

On the Australia route they use the B787 and have just joined the Star Alliance so things may be looking up a bit for them.

Their business class tickets are often considerably cheaper than other airlines on the same route, I really wouldn't want to fly on them in economy. Singapore Airlines have good India connections through Changi which may be a better option unless you particularly want Delhi non stop (be careful of disruptions due to fog in winter).

Joining their frequent flyer program, Flying Returns will get you an extra 10kgs of baggage allowance just for being a member.

[Argus]

Thanks Metro Man

[Wannabe Flyer]

I have flown this route on Air India a couple of times and find the following

1) timings are great
2) depending on the time of the year flight is either packed or half empty
3) Air India economy by far has the widest seats with the most pitch and are very comfortable
4) the 787 seems to be crewed with new younger hires and are non union so they are quite pleasent.
5) the selection of beverage is average unless you a whiskry drinker
6) Food average
7) service: well i am the kind who hates being disturbed many times wih announce,ents and over service. I appreciated the hostie telling me at beverage service when i order a beer, take 3 or 4 so i wont need to keep coming back and disturbing you :}:*
8) overall i fly it cause it saves me time and money and the Dreamliner is a good aircraft. Most importantly it arrives and departs at all points at decent hours.

[Argus]

Thanks Wannabe Flyer.

[Wannabe Flyer]

You are welcome

Meanwhile I will remove my foot from my mouth on below

Unruly Air India flyer tied to seat from Australia to Delhi - The Times of India (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Unruly-Air-India-flyer-tied-to-seat-from-Australia-to-Delhi/articleshow/40627842.cms)

[Metro man]

A restraint kit is standard equipment these days, crews are trained to deal with unruly passengers and this sort of thing happens on most airlines.

Scoot had a husband and wife fighting in the cabin a few months ago.

I considered using Air India business class for a trip to Europe as the fares were cheap and the miles count at 200% when credited into their own frequent flyer program (125% into another Star Alliance FFP). You can easily get a Star Alliance Gold card with a couple of long trips. There would have been a long layover in Delhi on the way back but I was going to stop over and see the Taj Mahal.

The wife wasn't too keen on flying with them and getting the India visa was a pain so I ended up with a Middle Eastern airline instead. I will consider them for future trips, hopefully things will improve with Star Alliance membership.

[Tinwacker]

If you can take Jet Airways a breath of fresh air, flown a number of times from India to the UK.
Good aircraft, flew onboard at the time A330/A340 and B777-300ER, clean, IFE, good classy crew and samosas to die for.....