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India’s aviation sector is thriving, fueled by a growing middle class, booming tourism, and bustling business travel. On a recent IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Leh, I marveled at how quickly I reached the serene Himalayas, a journey that would’ve taken days by road. The Indian domestic airline industry offers budget and premium carriers, connecting urban hubs to remote regions. This guide covers top airlines, baggage policies, popular routes, and travel rules to help you plan seamlessly.
The Landscape of Domestic Air Travel in India
India’s domestic air network links major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru with remote areas like Leh and Guwahati. From low-cost carriers to premium airlines, the industry caters to diverse travelers, supported by the UDAN scheme for regional connectivity. For baggage and travel regulations, see our baggage rules section or visit the DGCA website.
Top 10 Domestic Airlines in India
Based on fleet size, network coverage, service quality, and customer reviews, here are India’s top domestic airlines in 2025:
- IndiGo: India’s largest airline, operating over 2,000 daily flights with a focus on punctuality and affordability.
- SpiceJet: Offers competitive fares and connects over 60 destinations, strong in regional routes.
- Air India: Revamped post-Tata acquisition, modernizing its fleet and premium services. Air India Express focuses on budget routes.
- Vistara: A Tata-Singapore Airlines venture, known for premium economy and superior service.
- AirAsia India: A low-cost carrier with Tata backing, serving key routes efficiently.
- Alliance Air: Supports regional connectivity under the UDAN scheme, linking smaller cities.
- Star Air: Focuses on tier-2 and tier-3 cities, enhancing regional access.
- TruJet: Operates in southern and central India, targeting underserved markets.
- Akasa Air: Launched in 2022, emphasizing affordability and modern amenities.
- FlyBig: A regional carrier connecting smaller cities under the UDAN initiative.
The No. 1 Airline in India
IndiGo dominates with over 60% market share in 2025, thanks to its extensive network, reliable operations, and budget-friendly fares. For baggage details, see IndiGo’s baggage policy or visit IndiGo’s Wikipedia page.
India Airline Baggage Rules
Understanding baggage policies ensures hassle-free travel. Below are links to official baggage guidelines for India’s top domestic airlines, along with a comparison table. Check the DGCA baggage regulations for updates.
- Air India Baggage Info
- IndiGo Baggage Info
- Vistara Baggage Info
- SpiceJet Baggage Info
- Air India Express Baggage Info
- Akasa Air Baggage Info
- Alliance Air Baggage Info
- Star Air Baggage Info
Baggage Allowance Comparison
| Airline | Cabin Baggage | Checked Baggage (Economy) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IndiGo | 7 kg | 15 kg | Extra baggage fees apply; pre-book for discounts. |
| SpiceJet | 7 kg | 15 kg | Regional routes may allow 20 kg. |
| Air India | 8 kg | 25 kg | Generous allowance for loyalty members. |
| Vistara | 7 kg | 15 kg | Premium economy allows 20 kg. |
| Air India Express | 7 kg | 15 kg | International routes may differ. |
| Akasa Air | 7 kg | 15 kg | Flexible add-on options. |
| Alliance Air | 7 kg | 15 kg | Regional flights may allow 20 kg. |
| Star Air | 7 kg | 15 kg | Limited routes, check specifics. |
Popular Domestic Routes
India’s domestic flight routes connect key business, tech, and tourist hubs. The Delhi-Mumbai corridor is the busiest, linking the capital with the financial powerhouse. Other high-traffic routes include:
- Delhi-Bengaluru
- Mumbai-Bengaluru
- Delhi-Kolkata
- Delhi-Hyderabad
- Mumbai-Hyderabad
- Delhi-Chennai
- Delhi-Pune
- Delhi-Ahmedabad
- Bengaluru-Hyderabad
- Bengaluru-Kolkata
- Chennai-Hyderabad
For route details and schedules, visit airline websites like IndiGo or check India’s airport list.
Airlines Serving Domestic Routes
From IndiGo’s budget fares to Vistara’s premium services, India’s airlines cover a vast network, including charter and cargo services. Explore India’s airports for connectivity details.
Airlines That Ceased Operations
The competitive aviation market saw closures like Jet Airways in 2019 and GoFirst in 2023 due to financial issues. Learn more at Wikipedia’s Aviation in India page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines fly domestically in India?
Major domestic airlines include IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, Vistara, AirAsia India, Alliance Air, Star Air, TruJet, Akasa Air, and FlyBig. See our top airlines section.
What are the new rules for domestic flights in India?
Rules include mandatory ID checks, baggage limits (7 kg cabin, 15-25 kg checked), and health protocols like face masks in some cases. Visit DGCA guidelines for updates.
How early should I be for a domestic flight in India?
Arrive 2 hours before departure for check-in and security. Busy airports like Delhi or Mumbai may require extra time. Check airline sites like Air India for specifics.
What documents do I need for domestic flights?
A government-issued photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar, passport, driver’s license) is required. Children need IDs like a birth certificate. See DGCA passenger info. Travel Documents for India Flights Do Minors Need Identification to Travel
Which countries are visa-free for India?
Visa-free countries for Indian passport holders include Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, and Mauritius. Check India’s Ministry of External Affairs for a full list.
Which is the best domestic airline in India?
IndiGo leads due to its market share, network, and reliability. Vistara is preferred for premium services.
What are the baggage allowances for Indian airlines?
Most airlines allow 7 kg cabin baggage and 15 kg checked baggage for economy. Air India offers 25 kg checked baggage. See our comparison table.
Are there new airlines in India?
Akasa Air, launched in 2022, is the newest major player, focusing on affordability and modern services.
India’s domestic airline industry connects urban hubs to rural landscapes, with airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air leading the way. For more details, explore the list of airlines in India.
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