Air India has announced a change in its baggage policy for long-haul flights to the UK and Europe, raising fees for passengers requiring a second checked bag. This adjustment comes as part of the airline’s recently introduced ‘fare families,’ aimed at offering tailored options for different passenger needs.
The ‘Value’ fare, designed for economy-class travelers, includes one piece of checked luggage weighing up to 23kg. For passengers needing a second checked bag, upgrading to a ‘Classic’ or ‘Flex’ fare is required. These fares, which start at approximately INR 4,000 per one-way journey, provide additional baggage allowance along with greater ticket flexibility, such as more lenient rescheduling and cancellation policies.
The airline says this change aligns with the baggage policies of many other international carriers and reflects a strategic move to depart from the traditional “one-size-fits-all” approach to airfare.
Currently, Air India operates 264 flights weekly between India and destinations across the UK and Europe. This policy update is expected to cater to diverse passenger preferences while streamlining services.
Air India’s revamped fare structure underscores its focus on adapting to modern travel needs while maintaining competitive pricing in the global aviation market.