Air India FAQs: Key Information for Passengers

Here is Air India punctuality data from the last 7 days of operations to help you set realistic expectations:

• On-time performance: 42.49%. This means 2901 of the 6827 total flights operated arrived within 15 minutes of their scheduled gate time.

• Cancelled flights: 512 flights. Of these cancellations, 361 were on domestic routes and 151 were on international routes.

• Major delays: 31 flights. These flights experienced significant delays, arriving more than 3 hours after their scheduled time.

Flight numbers shown are estimates, based on internal databases and third parties.

Over the last week, Air India international flights had:

• a cancellation rate of 10.07%, and

• a severe delay rate (>180 minutes) of 0.93%.

The airline operated 1499 international flights during this period.

Reliability often depends on the specific route, airport, and external factors like weather or air traffic control restrictions.

Air India performance can vary, but AirHelp’s data offers an objective snapshot. Air India has an AirHelp Score of 6.11 out of 10, which evaluates airlines based on on-time performance, claim processing, and customer service.

Like all major carriers, the airline has experienced incidents in its history, but it continuously invests in pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and safety protocols. Modern aviation is statistically one of the safest modes of transportation, and Air India adheres to strict international and UK safety regulations.

Air India operates a wide-ranging domestic and international network, connecting cities across India with destinations in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia.

Air India's primary hubs are Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (DEL) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM). These serve as the central connection points for its global and domestic network.

Air India is a member of the Star Alliance. Its key partners include other Star Alliance members such as Lufthansa, United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Air Canada. It also maintains numerous bilateral codeshare agreements.

If you’re flying on a codeshare operated by another airline, your passenger rights usually depend on the operating carrier (the airline that actually flies the plane). However, if that airline is UK-based or your flight departs from the UK/EU, you may be entitled to compensation under UK 261 (or EC 261) for eligible delays or cancellations.

Let AirHelp check your eligibility and file the claim.

You may bring one carry-on bag and one personal item. Carry-on size limits and liquid restrictions follow the regulations of the departure country and airport security authorities.

Checked bag allowances depend on your route and ticket type. Weight and size limits apply, and fees may be charged for additional or overweight bags.

You should report it immediately to the Baggage Service Office (or at the Air India service desk, if available) and get a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) as proof. On international flights, your baggage rights are protected by the Montreal Convention, which also applies to flights departing from or arriving in the UK.

If you are an AirHelp+ member, you can let AirHelp handle your claim to obtain the reimbursement and compensation you are due (up to approximately £1,550).

You can check in online on the Air India website or mobile app starting 48 hours to 2 hours before departure (1 hour for domestic). You can also check in at airport kiosks or the service counter.

For domestic flights within India, arriving at least 2 hours before departure is recommended. For international flights, plan to arrive at least 3 to 4 hours before departure.

Prohibited items include explosives, flammable liquids, and many sharp objects. Common items like certain lighters and gel-type sports equipment are also not allowed. Check the UK and Indian government aviation security websites, as well as Air India's prohibited items list, for full details.

You can track your flight on the Air India app or website, or use the flight tracker built into the AirHelp app.

Compensation rights depend on the laws that apply to your specific flight. Flights departing from the United Kingdom or operated by a UK airline may qualify for compensation of up to £520 under UK 261, while EU-related flights fall under EC 261, provided the airline is responsible for the delay.

With our compensation checker, you can check for free whether you are entitled to compensation.

It depends on numerous circumstances, such as the law governing that specific flight, the notice period with which the airline communicates the cancellation, and the delay of the replacement flight. Under UK 261 and EC 261 laws, you may be entitled to assistance at the airport and compensation of up to £520.

Airlines first ask for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for compensation. If not enough volunteers are found and you are involuntarily denied boarding, you are entitled to compensation under UK 261, EC 261, and other local aviation regulations.

You can file your claim directly on the airline's website. For flight compensation under EU law, submit it through AirHelp: we’ve won compensation for 3 million passengers worldwide. AirHelp operates on a no-win, no-fee basis so you don’t pay us anything upfront.

Air India provides services for passengers with mobility, hearing, and vision disabilities. Common services include wheelchair assistance and pre-boarding.

You can request these accommodations during booking, via the airline's website or mobile app, or by contacting their customer service in advance. Learn more about rights for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility here.

Air India provides family boarding, child seat guidelines, and infant travel options depending on age and route.

Air India allows small domesticated dogs and cats to travel in the cabin on select domestic and international routes for a fee, subject to size, soft carrier restrictions, and limited spots per flight. Pets weighing 10-32 kg must travel as checked baggage; over 32 kg as cargo. Strict regulations apply (especially for snub-nosed breeds, which may be restricted). Health, vaccination, and customs documents are always required. It is essential to check Air India's specific pet policy well in advance of your trip and book at least 48 hours ahead.

Wi-Fi is available on select Air India aircraft (A350, B787-9, and certain A321neo). It is currently complimentary for an introductory period on equipped flights (both domestic and international). Full rollout across the fleet is ongoing.

Most wide-body aircraft (Boeing 787, 777) and some Airbus aircraft feature seatback screens with on-demand entertainment. On aircraft without screens, passengers may stream content to personal devices on select flights.

Complimentary meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are provided on all flights, with a focus on Indian and international cuisine. The service varies by flight duration and cabin class.

Complimentary beer, wine, and spirits are served in premium cabins (Business and First Class) on most flights. In Economy Class, alcoholic beverages are typically available for purchase on international routes and may be complimentary on some long-haul flights.

Yes, you may bring your own food on board, provided it complies with airport security regulations. Liquids (such as sauces or yoghurts) must generally adhere to the rules for carrying liquids.

The airline was founded in 1932 by J.R.D. Tata, originally operating as Tata Air Services. It was renamed Air India in 1946 and became the national flag carrier after India's independence.

Air India's corporate headquarters are located in Gurugram (Gurgaon), Haryana, India.