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Affordable flights connecting India and the world.
Founded
2005
Headquarters
Kochi, India
Air India Express is a low-cost subsidiary of Air India, established to serve budget-conscious travelers on domestic and international short-to-medium haul routes. It operates primarily out of major Indian cities and focuses on connecting India with destinations across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf region.
The airline was launched in 2005 to capitalize on the growing demand for affordable air travel, particularly among the Indian diaspora working in Gulf countries. It operates as a distinct brand under the Air India Group umbrella, offering no-frills services at competitive fares.
In recent years, Air India Express underwent significant restructuring following the re-privatization of Air India by the Tata Group in 2022. The airline has been expanding its network and fleet as part of broader growth plans for the Air India Group.
Hubs & network
Air India Express operates primary hubs at Cochin International Airport, Calicut International Airport, and several other major Indian airports including Delhi and Mumbai.
Fleet
Air India Express operates a fleet primarily consisting of Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with newer Boeing 737 MAX jets being added as part of fleet modernization.
Notable facts
- ›Air India Express was launched in April 2005 as a low-cost carrier subsidiary of Air India.
- ›The airline was deeply affected by the 2010 Mangalore air crash, one of India's deadliest aviation accidents.
- ›Following Tata Group's acquisition of Air India in 2022, Air India Express was integrated into a broader group restructuring.
- ›The airline primarily serves the Indian diaspora in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
- ›Air India Express merged operations with AIX Connect (formerly Air Asia India) in 2024 to consolidate the Tata Group's low-cost operations.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
