TBM Staff - Mumbai
As the travel industry recovers, demand for premium and business class air travel is surging among Indian travellers. Factors such as high economy-class fares and added comfort incentives are pushing many to upgrade. Tour operators like Thomas Cook India report significant growth in business class bookings, especially on routes to Southeast Asia, Europe, and metro hubs within India. Airlines, including Vistara, note that passengers are now more willing to spend for premium experiences. Domestic sales in premium segments have soared, showing that quality service has become a priority for many travellers.
Online booking platforms like MakeMyTrip reveal a steady demand for premium class on international flights, though growth is limited due to rising international ticket prices. Additionally, the business class share for outbound flights has grown since the pandemic, reflecting travellers’ preferences for higher-quality service. Domestic air travel demand in India has rebounded robustly, with February numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Industry experts predict continued growth, highlighting India’s low air travel penetration rate.
To support this rising demand, airlines are enhancing services, with last-minute airport upgrades becoming popular among travellers. Airlines like IndiGo report increased use of premium ancillary services, such as extra baggage and meal pre-booking. As more travellers seek a comfortable, premium experience, the focus is now on improving aviation infrastructure to meet the needs of an aspirational Indian market.
Union Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has noted that with India on track for economic growth, investing in aviation infrastructure is essential. The country’s aviation industry is expected to expand alongside economic ambitions, aiming to achieve a USD 20 trillion economy by 2047. The post-pandemic recovery marks a significant shift, with Indian travellers increasingly choosing premium experiences and shaping the future of the aviation sector.
