Air India Express Wins Top Wings India 2026 Award for Connectivity Boost

Air India Express has been named the winner in the airline category at the prestigious Wings India 2026 awards. The carrier was recognized for its major contribution to enhancing domestic connectivity and improving the overall passenger experience in India.

This award confirms Air India Express's emergence as the fastest-growing Indian airline in the country. The official announcement of the win was made on January 23. The award will be formally presented on January 28 during the flagship aviation event, Wings India 2026, held at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, India.

Recognition for Growth and Service

The award is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the industry body FICCI. It seeks to recognize exemplary efforts that support the growth, modernization, and sustainability of India's aviation sector.

A distinguished jury selected Air India Express based on several key factors:

• Expanding Connectivity: Significantly increasing its network, especially on metro-to-non-metro routes.
• Technology and Digital Platforms: Leveraging digital tools for better customer service.
• Sustainability: Continuing to drive responsible growth initiatives.
• Superior Services: Delivering an improved and consistent passenger experience.

Rapid Network and Fleet Expansion

Air India Express has rapidly expanded its operations across India and beyond. The airline now operates over 500 daily flights. Its network covers 45 domestic and 17 international destinations. These international routes span the Gulf region, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.

The airline's domestic network is strategically anchored by major hubs in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. Nearly 80% of its domestic capacity is deployed on metro-to-non-metro routes. This focus is key to boosting connectivity across India.

• Fleet Modernization: The current fleet comprises more than 100 aircraft. Over two-thirds of this fleet are new-generation Airbus and Boeing planes. The airline is actively adding new aircraft as part of its expansion plan.
• Capacity Surge: The airline operated over 1,260 weekly domestic flights by the end of FY25. This capacity has since accelerated, with weekly domestic flights rising to around 2,700 in FY26. This expansion included launching 12 new stations in 2025.

Enhancing Passenger Experience

The airline has invested heavily in enhancing the onboard experience. Recent months have seen the introduction of upgraded cabins through linefit and retrofit programs. These upgrades feature:

• Contoured seating and mood lighting.
• Larger overhead bins for passenger convenience.
• USB charging ports available at every seat.

Operational performance has also been a highlight. Air India Express reportedly topped the on-time performance (OTP) rankings among all Indian carriers in December. This focus on punctuality is vital for customer trust and operational efficiency.

Digital and onboard offerings have also been improved. The airline introduced 'Gourmair' hot meals inspired by regional flavors. It also offers customized fare options, including India's only Lite fare for cabin-bag-only travelers.

Through its codeshare partnership with Air India, Air India Express provides seamless international connectivity. This allows travelers from non-metro cities to connect easily to long-haul destinations in North America and Europe.

This is the second major recognition for the airline at the event. At the previous Wings India edition, Air India Express won the 'Sustainability Champion' award. This highlights the carrier's consistent commitment to responsible growth in the dynamic Indian aviation market.

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