Air India: Practical Tips for Booking, Baggage & Flight Issues

Flying with Air India? Whether you're booking your first ticket or you fly often, a few simple habits save time, money and stress. This page gives clear, practical advice on what to check before you buy, how to handle baggage, and what to do when flights go wrong.

Before you book

Start by comparing fare types on the same route. Economy fares can hide big differences in baggage allowance, seat selection and change fees. Look at the final price with taxes and baggage, not just the base fare. If you collect miles, check Flying Returns (Air India’s loyalty program) and Star Alliance benefits. Sometimes a slightly pricier fare earns more miles or free seat selection and that pays off.

Pick seats early if legroom matters. Exit row and bulkhead seats book fast. If you need special meals, wheelchair help, or are travelling with an infant or pet, add these requests during booking so the airline has time to confirm them.

Online check-in can save you a queue. Air India’s online check-in window typically opens 24–48 hours before departure depending on the route. Have your passport and PNR ready, and download or screenshot your boarding pass if your phone battery dies.

At the airport and during travel

Baggage rules vary by domestic vs international flights and by fare class. Don’t rely on memory—check your ticket or the airline’s baggage policy for weight and size limits. Pack a small digital scale at home to avoid surprises at the counter. Keep essentials and valuables in your carry-on.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, stay calm and act fast: (1) Check the airline app or display screens for status updates. (2) Visit the Air India service desk or call customer service—rebooking options are often available right away. (3) Keep receipts for meals, hotels or transport if you incur extra costs; you may need them for reimbursement.

For lost luggage, file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport before leaving. Get the reference number and follow up with the airline’s baggage help desk. For refunds or cancellations, use the same PNR through the website or contact the point of purchase (travel agent or third-party site). Keep all booking confirmations and receipts.

Other useful habits: set flight alerts for gate changes, save customer service numbers in your phone, and sign up for flight status notifications by SMS or email. Remember Air India now flies under Tata ownership and remains a Star Alliance member—this helps if you need re-routing on partner airlines.

Want quick reading? Check related stories and FAQs on this tag for details like one-passenger takeoff rules, travel documents, and passenger rights. Small prep before a trip keeps travel simple and stress-free.