Air India Business Class Review 2024
Are you looking for a recent review of Air India’s Business Class after Tata’s takeover?
I’ve got the rundown on Air India’s Business Class after Tata’s takeover of the airline. If you’re hesitant about flying Air India from the US to Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, don’t be! I had a great experience on the new Tata-led Air India. In fact, it was an improvement on my experience flying Emirates business class from the US to India.
The first time I flew Air India from JFK to Delhi in 2017, I had a not-so-great experience so I was unsure what to expect with my recent business class flight from JFK to Mumbai. But I can happily say I will be flying Air India internationally more often thanks to the upgrades Tata has made.
Air India Business Class Review: JFK to Mumbai
I flew the JFK to BOM route, which was 14 hours and 10 minutes non-stop. The plane was a Boeing 777-200LR that was formally part of Delta’s fleet. Tata-owned Air India has purchased five Boeing 777-200LR’s from Delta. These five former Delta planes are used in routes from US destinations to Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bangalore/Bengaluru (BLR).
Air India Business Class Seat Configuration
The seats are full lie flat and each seat has its own privacy door. The configuration of the cabin was 1 – 2 – 1, with single seats by the windows and two seats next to each other in the middle. The two middle seats have a divider that can be kept open or closed depending on if you are traveling with a companion or not.
Air India Business Class Meal Service
We were offered a drink selection upon boarding, consisting of strawberry lemonade, apple juice or water, along with a refreshing hot towel.
After takeoff, we were first served dinner. Then a few hours later a light meal with sandwiches. There were optional snacks made available between meal services. I enjoyed all of the food; it was on par with higher end airplane food.
There was also a cocktail menu and wine list.
Air India Business Class amenity kit
The Tumi amenity kit consisted of socks, an eye mask, dental kit, a pen, MALIN+GOETZ lip moisturizer, lotion, and facial mist.
The real standout was a complimentary Tumi night suit (aka pajamas). Being provided loungewear for business class flights was a first for me.
Air India FAQs
If you’re wondering more about Air India and its future, here is some information about the airline.
Who owns Air India?
Tata acquired Air India in January 2022, marking a new and improved chapter for the previously government run airline.
What changes has Tata made to Air India?
Tata has major goals for Air India. They have placed the largest aircraft order ever, including 250 Airbus and 220 Boeing planes for an estimated $80 billion. They aim to compete on major international flight routes.
In December 2023, Air India welcomed its first Airbus A350 to its fleet. Upgraded airplanes are one of many signals that Tata is working hard to transform Air India’s reputation.
Tata also plans to modernize its legacy Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 widebodies by the end of 2025.
Are there direct flights from the US to India?
With Air India you also get the added convenience of direct flights from the US to three international airports in India: Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore/Bengaluru.
If you’re landing in Mumbai, learn more about how to purchase a local SIM card at the Mumbai airport.
TL;DR: Tata-led Air India Business Class Review
I admit I was nervous to fly business class with Air India, but it turns out I had nothing to be nervous about. It was one of my best experiences in business class. The seats were very comfortable, the food and service was good, with a useful amenity kit and complimentary pajamas. I would highly recommend flying business class from JFK to India on Air India.
If this is your first trip to India, check out my recommended India Itinerary and amazing places to stay throughout the country.