Air India has been around since 1932 when its founder, J.R.D. Tata (father of civil aviation in India) landed a single-engine plane in Mumbai. Air India has grown to become India's premier airline as well as the national flagship carrier. Air India's experience and dedication to service are the things that separate it from cheaper alternatives. Follow these steps to book your seat.
Decide on a departure and destination city. Air India has hubs in New York, Singapore, Tokyo, Shanghai and Toronto, among other international cities.
Check out the Air India Web site (see below). The site is comprehensive. It offers everything from online booking and baggage tracking to seat reservations, special offers and promotions. Use the "Time Table" tab to plan out your itinerary.
Book your Air India flights online using a major credit card. Customize your departure and arrival cities, dates of travel and seat class. Passengers from India, the United Kingdom and the United States can book e-tickets up to 6 hours in advance.
Consider paying to upgrade to first class. Here, you'll get a portable DVD player to view both traditional and western films and listen to music.
Be prepared for moderately priced airfare from this regional airline.
Choose one of Air India's three flight classifications: economy, executive and first class. For those traveling first class, be prepared to sink into plush carpet as you enjoy a 180-degree reclining seat. You'll get a full, flat "sleeperette" bed. In executive class, you can savor free food with wine and exclusive check-in privileges.
Buy a range of duty-free products while you travel. Air India offers cigarettes, toys, accessories, whiskey, chocolates, fragrances, jewelry, cosmetics and watches.