In December 2025, Air India was named the “Best Domestic Airline” at the 14th edition of Travel + Leisure India & South Asia’s “India’s Best Awards.”
Here are the study notes summarising the key details of this achievement:
1. Core Award Details
- Award Title: Best Domestic Airline.
- Organiser: Travel + Leisure India & South Asia.
- Edition: 14th Edition (India’s Best Awards 2025).
- Winning Streak: This is the second consecutive year (2024 and 2025) that Air India has secured this specific title.
- Selection Process: The winners were chosen through a democratic online voting process by readers and travellers (not a jury), reflecting high levels of customer trust.
2. Key Drivers for the Win
The award recognises Air India’s massive transformation under the Vihaan.AI initiative. Key factors include:
- Fleet Modernisation: Air India has placed a historic order for 570 new aircraft.
- Retrofit Program: A USD 400 million investment to refurbish legacy cabins with modern interiors, new seats, and upgraded In-Flight Entertainment (IFE).
- Operational Scale: As of late 2025, roughly 83% of the fleet (104 aircraft) serving domestic and short-haul routes consists of new or upgraded planes.
- Enhanced Service: Improvements in food and beverage offerings and the role of frontline staff in delivering a consistent passenger experience.
3. Strategic Significance
- Validation of Transformation: The award validates the Tata Group’s efforts to turn the former state carrier into a world-class airline.
- Customer Confidence: Winning a reader-voted award suggests that the public perception of Air India is improving despite the challenges of merging with Vistara and AirAsia India.
- Competitive Edge: This title enhances Air India’s brand in an increasingly competitive domestic market, alongside players such as IndiGo and Akasa Air.
4. Associated 2025 Winners (Context)
To understand the landscape of the 2025 awards:
- Best International Airline: Singapore Airlines and Emirates (shared/multiple honours).
- Best Domestic Airport: Terminal 2 (T2), Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.
- Best International Airport: Singapore Changi Airport.
- Best In-flight Menu: Singapore Airlines (Editor’s Choice).