Google News (Airlines) · 16 Jun 2026
Air India has introduced a 'Basic' fare class on select domestic Economy routes on a pilot basis, removing complimentary meals in exchange for a lower price point. The new tier sits below Value, Classic, and Flex; Basic passengers receive 15 kg checked baggage and a complimentary beverage but must pre-purchase meals separately. The launch is positioned as an option for travellers who prioritise price over inclusions.
FSCs adding no-frills sub-economy tiers is a recurring pattern in mature aviation markets — US carriers proved the Basic Economy model works; Air India is the first full-service Indian domestic carrier to follow, arriving as IndiGo's cost-structure advantage has been narrowing through 2025–26.
Industry lens
Airlines gating their lowest fare class behind direct booking make OTA price-comparison structurally incomplete — the displayed cheapest option is no longer the actual cheapest. Travel platforms that build explicit fare-family disclosure and source attribution will maintain traveller trust longer than those showing incomplete fare sets without labelling.
“Being trialled on select domestic routes, the Basic fare is available for travel in Economy Class and is designed for travellers who prioritise value.”
— Google News (Airlines)