Air India Express: A Comprehensive Review of India’s Low-Cost Carrier

Airlines

$100 Website Offer

Get your personal website + domain for just $100.

Limited Time Offer!

Claim Your Website Now

Booking & Website/App Experience with Air India Express

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

Air India Express offers a straightforward booking process through its website and mobile app. The interface is clean, and users can easily search for flights, select seats, and manage bookings.

However, some travelers have reported issues with the website’s functionality, including slow loading times and occasional glitches during payment processing. The mobile app, while functional, lacks some features found in other airline apps, such as real-time flight updates and mobile boarding passes.


Check-in Process with Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

The check-in process with Air India Express is generally efficient, with options for online, mobile, and airport kiosk check-ins. Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure, allowing passengers to select seats and receive boarding passes electronically.

Nevertheless, some passengers have encountered issues with online check-in, especially for connecting flights, where the system only allowed check-in for the first leg of the journey. Additionally, there have been instances of long queues at airport check-in counters, particularly during peak travel times, suggesting a need for improved staffing or more efficient processes.


Airport Experience for Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Air India Express operates primarily out of major Indian airports, which are modern and well-equipped. Passengers have noted the cleanliness of the facilities and the availability of amenities such as lounges for Business Class travelers and frequent flyers. The lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi access, enhancing the pre-flight experience.

However, some travelers have reported that signage within the airport can be confusing, and assistance from ground staff is not always readily available. This can be particularly challenging for first-time visitors or those with tight connection times.


Punctuality of Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Air India Express has a mixed record for punctuality. While some flights depart and arrive on time, there have been reports of delays and cancellations. Passengers have expressed frustration over the lack of timely communication regarding delays and the limited assistance provided during such events.

The airline has acknowledged these issues and claims to be implementing operational improvements to enhance on-time performance. However, consistent punctuality remains an area for improvement.


In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Air India Express maintains acceptable standards of cleanliness and comfort on board its aircraft. The cabins are regularly cleaned, and the seating is generally comfortable for short to medium-haul flights. The airline’s newer aircraft feature modern interiors and ergonomic seats, enhancing passenger comfort.

However, some travelers have noted that on older aircraft, the seats can feel worn, and the cabin ambiance is less appealing. Additionally, the lack of personal entertainment screens on most flights may be a drawback for some passengers, although the airline offers a selection of digital content accessible via personal devices.


In-flight Services of Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Air India Express offers a range of in-flight services, including the option to pre-book meals and beverages. Passengers have expressed appreciation for the quality and taste of the meals, as well as the attentive service provided by the cabin crew.

The airline also provides a selection of beverages, adding a cultural touch to the in-flight experience. However, some passengers have reported inconsistencies in service quality, with occasional lapses in attentiveness or professionalism from the crew.


Baggage Handling of Air India Express

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

Baggage handling is an area where Air India Express has received criticism. There have been multiple reports of delayed, damaged, or lost luggage, with some passengers expressing frustration over the airline’s response and compensation processes.

Additionally, the enforcement of baggage policies, particularly regarding carry-on allowances, has been described as inconsistent. Some travelers have been required to check in carry-on bags at the gate without prior notice, leading to inconvenience and unexpected fees.


Value for Money of Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Air India Express offers competitive pricing, especially considering the inclusion of complimentary meals, beverages, and checked baggage on certain fare classes. Passengers have noted that the overall service quality exceeds that of many low-cost carriers, providing good value for money.

However, travelers should be cautious when selecting fare types, as the most basic options may not include checked baggage or seat selection, leading to additional costs. Clearer communication regarding what is included in each fare type would enhance transparency and customer satisfaction.


Overall Experience of Air India Express

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Overall, Air India Express delivers a satisfactory travel experience, particularly on short to medium-haul flights within India and to neighboring countries. The airline’s strengths lie in its competitive pricing and in-flight services. While there are areas for improvement, such as baggage handling and clarity in fare structures, the airline generally provides a reliable and comfortable journey.


Final Verdict of Air India Express

Air India Express stands out as a viable choice for travelers seeking affordable options without compromising on essential services. Its commitment to providing in-flight amenities and maintaining operational efficiency contributes to a positive passenger experience. However, attention to baggage handling procedures and clearer communication regarding fare inclusions would further enhance the airline’s reputation.

Final Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)


Summary Table: Air India Express Review

AspectRating (out of 5)Summary
Booking & Website/App Experience★★☆☆☆ (2/5)User-friendly interface; some issues with website functionality and mobile app features.
Check-in Process★★★☆☆ (3/5)Efficient online check-in; issues with connecting flights and long airport queues.
Airport Experience★★★☆☆ (3/5)Modern facilities; clean lounges; some signage confusion.
Punctuality★★★☆☆ (3/5)Mixed record; some delays and cancellations; operational improvements underway.
In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness★★★☆☆ (3/5)Clean cabins; comfortable seating; older aircraft less appealing.
In-flight Services★★★☆☆ (3/5)Pre-booked meals and beverages; attentive service; occasional inconsistencies.
Baggage Handling★★☆☆☆ (2/5)Reports of delayed/damaged/lost luggage; inconsistent policy enforcement.
Value for Money★★★☆☆ (3/5)Competitive pricing; good service quality; need for clearer fare inclusions.
Overall Experience★★★☆☆ (3/5)Satisfactory experience; areas for improvement in baggage handling and fare clarity.

References:

  1. Tripadvisor Reviews on Air India Express
  2. Reddit Discussion on Air India Express Experience
  3. Skytrax Customer Reviews
  4. FlyerTalk Forum on Air India Express
  5. AirlineRatings.com Air India Express Reviews
  6. Flight-Report Passenger Reviews
  7. Air India Express Official Website
  8. Wikipedia Article on Air India Express

Note: This review is based on aggregated user experiences and publicly available information as of May 2025. Individual experiences may vary.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x