From Comfort to Convenience

Indian aviation has come a long way from its “wild wild west” era. Today, it’s a force to be reckoned with! Billions of dollars' worth of airplanes are being ordered, and new routes are being added. But as a seasoned flyer, there’s something that’s been gnawing at me: HOW DID INDIAN AIRLINES GO FROM COMFORT TO CONVENIENCE? How did we go from world-class products and service in the 2000s to cramming passengers like cattle on planes? Let’s dive into this fascinating journey together!

The Extravagant Past of Indian Aviation

In my opinion, the golden age of Indian aviation can be divided into two parts. First, we have the glorious 60s and 70s (pre-1978), when Air India and Indian Airlines ruled the Indian skies. Oh, Air India! It was a far different airline back then. Under the guidance of the legendary J.R.D. Tata, Air India was one of the most sought-after airlines in the world. In fact, it even influenced airlines like Singapore Airlines in terms of service standards. Irony, right?

Not only did Air India offer top-notch service, but it also beautifully represented Indian culture. Picture this: Rajasthani-style wallpapers inside a Jumbo Jet and an upper deck lounge that was simply out of this world! But alas, things started to go downhill once J.R.D. Tata was removed from the airline’s board of directors.

Air India had one of the best 747 upper decks of its time, encompassing culture, warmth, and style very well. Picture via Pinterest

The second phase, which I was lucky enough to experience, was the post-deregulation era of the 90s and 2000s. This was when private players entered the scene, and boy, did they shake things up! There were several airlines back then that offered high-quality service, but two stood out to me: Jet Airways and Kingfisher.

I still fondly remember the quality service on Jet Airways. It was ahead of its time with the launch of its 777–300ER First and Business class cabin. As a child, I was absolutely blown away! Jet First and Business class were aspirational products for me and millions of Indians just like me.

Considered to be one of the best for its time, Jet Airways 777s featured the herringbone seats offering direct-aisle access and more comfortable seating to its passengers. Picture via Wikimedia Commons

The Ultra-Luxurious Jet Airways First Class, which competed with the best of its time. Picture via BANGALORE AVIATION

Now, if Jet was the one to set the standards, Kingfisher was the airline that took it up a notch! Man, oh man, what an airline it was! It was one of the few Indian airlines to offer a first-class level experience in Business class, complete with an onboard bar on its A330s! I still remember the luxurious leather seats and amenity kits in Economy class. Can you believe it? But then, what happened? How did we go from amenity kits in economy to not even having in-flight meals on many airlines?

Luxury had a new meaning with the launch of the Kingfisher First on it’s A330s. Picture via Pintrest

A still from a kingfisher flight showing it’s superior quality of service. Picture via Alarmy

The Turning Point

Everything changed in 2003 when a new airline was launched. But wait, this was no ordinary airline! Unlike its competitors, this airline offered no in-flight services, allowing it to price its tickets lower than everyone else. This made air travel more accessible to the common man. The airline? None other than Air Deccan, the first low-cost Indian carrier. It truly shaped the industry as we know it today!

Air Deccan paved the way for carriers like Indigo, Go Air, and SpiceJet. The rest, as they say, is history.

The entry of Air Deccan shaped the industry as we know it today, paving the way for low-cost carriers. Picture via Wikimedia Commons

The Indian aviation industry is a tough nut to crack. With a price-sensitive market and high fuel prices, it’s not the most pleasant journey for airlines to operate and survive. Full-service carriers face higher operational costs, which adds to their woes. In their pursuit of competitive pricing, many full-service carriers had to shut their doors forever. The mounting costs led to catastrophic losses.

Vistara was one of the rare airlines in India offering a superior cabin product and service. Picture of its 787–9 business class via TheDesignAir

In a scene dominated by low-cost carriers, the only airline that comes close to the airlines of the past these days was Vistara before its merger.

Ray of Hope?

Air India's A350 business class is currently one of the best products in the industry and country. Picture via Simple Flying

With the changes happening within Air India and Indigo launching its own business class product, one wonders if Indian aviation has a ray of hope. So far, Air India has received a positive response for its A350 flights. However, applying the same level of service and product to the rest of its fleet will take time. As I always say about Indian aviation, only time shall tell what awaits next!

In conclusion, the journey of Indian aviation is a fascinating one, filled with ups and downs. From the luxurious past to the current state of convenience, it’s a story that continues to evolve. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us aviation enthusiasts!