Air India Launches ‘Basic’ Fare Without Free Meals: What It Means for Travellers

Written by: Aayushi ChaubeyUpdated on: 18 Jun 2026, 6:52 pm IST

Air India has introduced a new Basic economy fare on select domestic routes without complimentary meals. Here's what passengers get, who benefits, and why the airline is making the move.

Air India has introduced a new "Basic" economy fare category that excludes complimentary meals, marking a notable shift in its domestic pricing strategy as the airline seeks to attract more price-sensitive travellers.

The Tata Group-owned carrier said the fare is being rolled out on select domestic routes and is aimed at passengers who prioritize lower ticket prices over bundled services. The move reflects a broader trend in the aviation industry, where airlines increasingly offer unbundled fare options to cater to different customer segments while generating additional revenue from optional services.

What Does the New Basic Fare Include?

Passengers opting for the Basic fare will continue to receive a 15-kg checked baggage allowance and a 7-kg cabin baggage allowance. Complimentary tea or coffee will also be available onboard.

However, unlike Air India's existing fare categories, meals will not be included in the ticket price. Customers who wish to have a meal during their journey can purchase one in advance up to 24 hours before departure. Meal options include vegetarian, non-vegetarian, Jain, and diabetic choices.

The airline clarified that the new fare is optional and does not replace its existing Value, Classic, and Flex fare categories, all of which continue to include complimentary meals and other bundled benefits.

Why Is Air India Introducing a No-Meal Fare?

The launch of the Basic fare appears to be part of Air India's ongoing transformation strategy aimed at offering greater flexibility and personalization to customers.

By unbundling certain services, the airline can offer lower entry-level fares while allowing passengers to pay only for the services they need. The model has been widely adopted by low-cost carriers and increasingly by full-service airlines seeking to remain competitive in a price-conscious market.

For Air India, the move could also help attract travellers who compare fares primarily on price, particularly on short-haul domestic routes where complimentary meals may not be a key deciding factor.

Available Only Through Direct Channels

Currently, the Basic fare is available exclusively through Air India's website, mobile app, contact centre, airport ticketing offices, and other direct booking channels. The airline said it will assess customer response during the pilot phase before deciding on a wider rollout.

Conclusion

Air India's new Basic fare represents a strategic effort to balance affordability with flexibility. While passengers willing to forgo complimentary meals may benefit from lower fares, the airline retains its full-service offerings for those seeking a more inclusive travel experience. The success of the initiative will likely depend on how much value-conscious travellers prioritize ticket prices over onboard amenities.

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Published on: Jun 18, 2026, 1:20 PM IST

Aayushi Chaubey

Aayushi Chaubey is a finance enthusiast with a year of experience in the market research industry. She loves to decipher the impact of real-world developments on stock markets and how investors can make smart investment decisions to meet their long-term goals.

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