Air India retains best domestic airline title at Travel + Leisure Awards 2025

Air India has been named Best Domestic Airline at the Travel + Leisure India and South Asia’s Best Awards 2025 for the second consecutive year, the airline said in a release on Wednesday. The award was decided through a reader vote, reflecting feedback from passengers who travelled with the carrier.

According to Air India, the recognition comes at a time when Indian travellers are increasingly focused on comfort, service quality, and consistency across their journeys.

Award Based on Customer Votes

The Travel + Leisure Best Awards are determined through votes cast by readers, making the recognition a reflection of customer preference rather than a jury-led decision. Air India said the award highlights the trust placed in the airline by its passengers.


The airline also noted that the honour recognises the efforts of its frontline staff, who play a key role in delivering day-to-day services across airports and onboard flights.

Air India Statement on the Recognition

Reacting to the award, Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India, said the recognition reflects the airline’s focus on improving the travel experience.

“Earning this recognition for the second consecutive year reflects Air India’s commitment to delivering truly world-class travel experiences for its guests,” Dogra said. He added that initiatives such as aircraft upgrades and improved food and beverage offerings are part of the airline’s broader transformation plan.

Part of Ongoing Transformation Journey

The award comes during a crucial phase of Air India’s ongoing transformation. The airline is investing heavily in fleet modernisation and customer experience improvements.

As part of this process, Air India has placed orders for 570 new aircraft and is upgrading its onboard services. A key element of the transformation is a USD 400 million retrofit programme, aimed at refurbishing existing aircraft cabins with new interiors, improved seating, and updated inflight entertainment systems.

Fleet Upgrade and Retrofit Progress

Air India has completed the retrofit of its legacy A320 aircraft, improving comfort on domestic and short-haul international routes. Currently, 104 aircraft, or 83% of the fleet, are either new or upgraded for these routes.

The airline has also begun work on its widebody aircraft. Two Boeing 787-8 aircraft are currently undergoing retrofit in the United States and are expected to return to service in February 2026. After that, Air India plans to retrofit two to three widebody aircraft every month.

What Lies Ahead for Air India

In 2026, Air India is scheduled to receive six new widebody aircraft, including B787-9 and A350-1000 models. By the end of 2026, the airline expects 96% of its narrowbody fleet and nearly 60% of its widebody fleet to be new or upgraded.

Air India said it will continue to focus on gradual improvements as part of its long-term plan to strengthen operations and customer experience.