This holiday season, a significant shift has been observed in the travel habits of Indians, with many choosing to upgrade to business class for both domestic and international flights. According to data from MakeMyTrip, the demand for business class has surged by 50% this year, compared to the same period last year. International bookings have seen an impressive 80% rise, while domestic travel in business class has also experienced a 27% increase.
Travel agents and industry insiders attribute this trend to a growing desire for a more comfortable flying experience. Many travelers are now prioritizing features like extra legroom, better meals, and superior in-flight entertainment. “People want bigger leg space and more comfort,” said Pramod Singh, a travel agent based in Delhi. “They are willing to pay more for international flights to enjoy a premium experience.” Similarly, Alok Gupta, another travel agent, noted that travelers are now more inclined towards long-haul flights that offer the ability to relax, watch movies, and sleep comfortably. The growing popularity of business class can also be traced to corporate policies evolving towards more inclusivity. Indiver Rastogi, president at Thomas Cook India, mentioned that as the prices for premium cabins stabilize, corporate policies are extending business class privileges to more employees, not just senior executives. Additionally, airlines have responded with more attractive pricing, value-added services, and loyalty programs that make business class travel more accessible to a wider audience. For instance, airlines like IndiGo are now offering business class on select routes, complete with curated meals and enhanced comfort. Meanwhile, Air India, under its new ownership by Tata Group, is undergoing a significant fleet refurbishment, with 80 wide-body planes on order to cater to this growing demand.
The trend isn’t just limited to international routes, where destinations like Bangkok, Bali, and Kathmandu are seeing the highest demand for business seats. Domestic routes to cities such as Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Lucknow are also witnessing a steady increase in business class bookings, particularly on routes connecting major business hubs. Experts, including Rajesh Magow from MakeMyTrip, suggest that the demand for premium travel is driven by a broader trend of ‘premiumisation’, with travelers willing to invest in a memorable and luxurious holiday experience. With airlines ramping up their premium offerings and more affordable options becoming available, business class travel is now a viable choice for a larger segment of Indian travelers.
