Senior citizens flying with Air India can now benefit from special concessions on international routes, the national carrier announced this week.
In an email sent to customers on Tuesday, September 2, the airline confirmed that discounts previously limited to domestic travel have now been expanded to international flights, offering additional perks for passengers aged 60 and above.
Until now, senior citizens were entitled to a 25 percent discount on the base fare of domestic tickets. With the new scheme, Air India is providing up to 10 percent off base fares on all international cabins, alongside benefits designed to make travel more convenient.
According to the airline’s website, the international concessions include one free date change, subject to any difference in fares, and an additional baggage allowance of 10 kilograms or one extra piece, depending on the fare structure.
Under the weight system, passengers are entitled to 10 kg over and above the standard allowance, capped at 40 kg for Economy, 45 kg for Premium Economy, and 50 kg for Business Class. Under the piece system, senior travellers may check in two bags weighing up to 23 kg each in Economy, or two bags up to 32 kg each in Business.
To avail of the discount, customers must select the “Senior Citizen” option under the “Concession Type” menu when booking flights on the Air India website.
The carrier has also outlined strict verification requirements. Passengers must carry valid photo identification displaying their date of birth, which will be checked at both ticketing and check-in counters. Those unable to provide the necessary documentation may face penalties, including being charged twice the original ticket fare plus taxes. Failure to present valid ID at the boarding gate could result in denied boarding, the airline warned.
Air India further noted that the senior citizen concession can be combined with certain promotional offers at the time of booking, potentially increasing overall savings. However, the scheme is not applicable on tickets purchased using loyalty points.
The announcement comes as part of Air India’s broader efforts to enhance passenger experience following its ongoing transformation under Tata Group ownership. Industry observers say the new concession underscores the carrier’s bid to attract a wider demographic of international travellers, particularly older passengers who may value cost savings and added flexibility.
With international travel steadily rebounding after the pandemic, the airline’s decision to extend senior citizen benefits could strengthen its competitive edge on busy global routes.
