Domestic Flights in India: Quick Tips and Best Deals
Flying inside India used to feel pricey, but today you can grab a seat for a fraction of the cost if you know where to look. Below are the real‑world tricks that get you from Delhi to Goa, Mumbai to Kolkata, without breaking the bank.
When to Book for the Lowest Fares
The sweet spot for cheap tickets is usually 2‑3 weeks before your travel date. Airlines release discounts early, then raise prices as seats fill up. If your dates are flexible, set a price alert on the airline’s website or a travel app and jump on the dip when it appears.
Mid‑week flights—Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday—are often cheaper than weekend trips. Business travelers book Monday and Friday, so airlines keep those seats pricier. Stick to off‑peak hours (early morning or late night) and you’ll often see lower fares and less crowded airports.
Choosing the Right Low‑Cost Carrier
India has several budget airlines that dominate the domestic scene: IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir (now Go First), and AirAsia India. IndiGo offers the most routes and a solid on‑time record, while SpiceJet’s promotional codes can shave off an extra 10‑15%.
Sign up for their newsletters. You’ll get flash sale alerts straight to your inbox—those “30% off for 48 hours” deals disappear fast. Also, remember that many low‑cost carriers charge extra for checked baggage, seat selection, and meals. Pack light, travel with a carry‑on, and bring your own snack to save.
Another tip: use the airline’s own app to book. Some carriers give a discount of up to ₹500 when you book via the app instead of a third‑party site. It also makes checking in a breeze—just a few taps before you head to the terminal.
For longer routes like Delhi‑Bengaluru or Mumbai‑Chennai, consider booking a “flexi‑fare” if you think you might need to change dates. It costs a bit more upfront but can save you from hefty change fees later.
When you land, airports like Delhi and Mumbai have fast‑track security for a small fee. If you’re in a hurry, it’s worth the ₹350‑₹500 spend. Smaller airports (e.g., Kochi, Jaipur) usually move faster, so you can skip the premium service altogether.
Traveling with kids? Some airlines allow a free infant seat on the lap, but you’ll still pay a minimal tax. Bring your own baby carrier to make the boarding process smoother.
Lastly, keep an eye on regional airlines that operate short hops—those often have last‑minute seats that drop in price a day before departure. A quick call to the airline’s local office can uncover hidden deals not shown online.
Putting these tricks together—booking early, flying mid‑week, using airline apps, and packing light—means you can comfortably fly across India for under ₹2,000 on many routes. So next time you think about a weekend getaway, check the domestic flight options first. You’ll be surprised how affordable a quick flight can be.
The question of whether domestic flights allow drunk passengers isn't a simple yes or no. While airlines don't have a specific policy banning intoxicated passengers, they do reserve the right to refuse boarding to anyone they deem a potential risk to the safety or comfort of others. So, if you're visibly intoxicated, causing a scene, or seem likely to become disruptive, you might not be allowed on your flight. It's also worth noting that excessive drinking can exacerbate health issues related to air travel. So, for the sake of everyone's comfort and safety, it might be best to save the celebrations for after the flight.