New Delhi: Air India on Tuesday announced a new 'Basic fare option' that excludes complimentary meals on domestic flights. The move comes as the airline grapples with rising operational costs and overall financial losses.
Optional Basic Fare
The airline emphasized that the Basic fare is entirely optional, and passengers can still choose from the existing Value, Classic, and Flex fare categories. These options include complimentary meals and various bundled benefits, with features increasing at higher price points.
Targeting Price-Sensitive Travelers
Air India clarified that the Basic fare adds another choice for travelers, especially those who are price-sensitive and prefer a more unbundled travel option. The airline stated, "Being trialled on select domestic routes, the Basic fare is available for travel in Economy Class and is designed for travellers who prioritise value."
The airline further explained, "The Basic fare is entirely optional, and travellers continue to have the choice of booking across Air India’s existing fare families - Value, Classic, and Flex - each of which includes complimentary meals and a range of bundled benefits at progressively higher price points. The introduction of Basic fare simply adds another layer of choice, particularly for price-conscious travellers who prefer a more unbundled offering."
Pilot Phase
Air India noted that this is currently a pilot phase, and a decision on whether to continue the Basic fare option will be made after evaluating customer response and feedback.
