Air India Express Wins Airline Category At Wings India 2026

Air India Express Strengthens Connectivity With 45 Domestic And 17 International Destinations

Ministry of Civil Aviation, in collaboration with FICCI and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), announced Air India Express as the winner in the airline category at Wings India 2026. The airline was recognised for enhancing passenger experience, expanding connectivity, delivering superior services, embracing digital innovation, and driving sustainability. The award will be presented on 28 January at India’s premier aviation event in Hyderabad.

Air India Express’ network spans 45 domestic and 17 international destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf region with over 500 daily flights, offering travellers choice, connectivity, and schedule flexibility.

The airline now operates a fleet of over 100 aeroplanes, with over two-thirds of its fleet now comprising brand new Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Its recently unveiled linefit and retrofit cabins feature plush contoured leatherette seating, soothing mood lighting, a quieter cabin experience, larger overhead bins for more cabin storage, and fast-charging USB-C and USB-A ports for every seat. In December, Air India Express ranked number one in on-time performance amongst all Indian airlines.

The airline has also made sustained investments in elevating its airport, onboard and digital experience. ‘Gourmair’ hot meals inspired by regional flavours and the industry’s first customised fare options including India’s only Lite (cabin-bag only) fare.

The airline’s network is anchored by its three largest hubs - Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, which together form the backbone of its connectivity. These hubs enable seamless transfers, and improved schedule reliability, enhancing convenience and efficiency for guests. Nearly 80 per cent of domestic capacity is deployed on routes connecting metros to non-metros, the fastest-growing segment in Indian aviation. By the end of FY25, the airline operated over 1,260 weekly domestic flights across approximately 120 routes, reflecting a 47 per cent year-on-year increase. Of the 20 million guests carried by Air India Express in FY25, nearly three-fourth were domestic travellers.

This momentum accelerated further in FY26, with weekly domestic flights rising to around 2,700, an increase of nearly 115 per cent. As part of this unprecedented expansion, the airline launched 12 new stations in 2025, further strengthening network reach and accessibility.

Air India Express also plays a distinct role through its codeshare partnership with Air India. This integration enables guests from emerging cities to connect seamlessly, on a single PNR, to long-haul international destinations across North America, Europe, and other global markets.

Air India Express won the ‘Sustainability Champion’ Award at the last edition of Wings India.