Top Airlines for Flights from India to the USA: Comparison and Reviews
For those planning to fly from India to the USA, choosing the right airline can make all the difference in comfort, service, and overall experience. The long-haul journey, spanning over 15-20 hours on average, requires thoughtful consideration of seat comfort, in-flight entertainment, meal options, and overall service quality.
Fortunately, several top airlines provide direct and one-stop flights, ensuring that passengers have a range of choices based on their preferences and budget.
In this article, we’ll review and compare some of the leading airlines offering flights between India and the USA, focusing on factors like flight options, cabin experience, in-flight services, and customer feedback.
Top Airlines for Flights from India to the USA
1. Air India
Overview
Air India is the flag carrier of India and one of the oldest airlines offering direct flights to the USA. With non-stop services from cities like Delhi and Mumbai to major American cities such as New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., Air India remains a popular choice for Indian travelers.
Pros
- Direct Flights: Air India offers non-stop flights from India to the USA, which reduces travel time significantly.
- Indian Meals: Indian cuisine is a highlight of Air India flights, with a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian meal options, especially catering to Indian travelers.
- Baggage Allowance: Air India offers generous baggage allowances compared to many other international airlines.
Cons
- Inconsistent Service Quality: While some passengers report excellent service, others have noted that the airline can sometimes fall short in areas such as punctuality, cleanliness, and in-flight entertainment.
- Aging Fleet: Some Air India aircraft are older and may not offer the same modern amenities and comforts found on newer planes.
2. Qatar Airways
Overview
Qatar Airways is a Middle Eastern carrier known for its luxurious services and consistently ranks among the top airlines in the world. Although it doesn't offer direct flights from India to the USA, it provides a seamless one-stop service via its hub in Doha.
Pros
- Top-Notch Service: Qatar Airways is renowned for its premium service in all classes. Whether you're flying economy or business, you're likely to experience attentive and courteous service.
- Modern Fleet: The airline's state-of-the-art planes are equipped with the latest technology and features for a comfortable journey, including spacious seating and advanced in-flight entertainment systems.
- Luxurious Layover Experience: For those stopping in Doha, Qatar Airways' Hamad International Airport offers a world-class experience with various lounges, shopping, and dining options.
Cons
- Layover Time: While the airline offers excellent service, the layover in Doha can add extra hours to your journey, which may not appeal to travelers seeking faster flights.
- Ticket Prices: Qatar Airways can be pricier compared to budget carriers, especially for last-minute bookings.
3. Emirates
Overview
Dubai-based Emirates is another top Middle Eastern airline with an extensive network connecting India and the USA. With one-stop flights via Dubai, Emirates offers a luxurious flying experience, often making it the preferred choice for premium travelers.
Pros
- Exceptional In-Flight Entertainment: Emirates’ ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) system is one of the best in the world, offering hundreds of movies, TV shows, and music options to keep you entertained.
- Spacious Economy Class: Emirates’ economy class is praised for its legroom and comfort compared to many other airlines.
- Premium Cabins: For travelers willing to splurge, Emirates’ business and first-class cabins offer unparalleled luxury, with private suites and access to onboard lounges.
Cons
- Expensive Fares: While the airline is top-tier in terms of service, it comes with a premium price tag, especially for business and first class.
- Longer Layovers: The layover in Dubai can add travel time, making the total journey longer than non-stop options.
4. United Airlines
Overview
United Airlines, a major US carrier, offers non-stop flights from cities like Delhi and Mumbai to major US cities like Newark, Chicago, and San Francisco. United’s direct connections make it a convenient option for passengers looking to minimize travel time.
Pros
- Non-Stop Flights: United Airlines’ direct flights save time, avoiding layovers and long waits at airports.
- Consistent Service: United has made significant improvements in service quality in recent years, providing a reliable and comfortable experience for passengers in all classes.
- MileagePlus Program: Frequent flyers can benefit from United’s MileagePlus program, which offers a range of benefits, including free upgrades and priority boarding.
Cons
- Average Economy Class: While business and first-class passengers enjoy premium amenities, economy passengers may find United’s services basic, particularly in terms of food quality and seat comfort.
- Higher Baggage Fees: United charges more for additional baggage, which can be a drawback for passengers traveling with excess luggage.
5. Delta Airlines
Overview
Delta Airlines offers direct flights between India and the USA, connecting New York with Mumbai. Delta is known for its excellent customer service and comfortable flying experience, making it a favorite among travelers.
Pros
- Reliable Service: Delta is consistently praised for its on-time performance and high service standards.
- Comfortable Seating: Delta’s economy class is designed for comfort, with sufficient legroom and ergonomic seating.
- Delta Sky Club: For business and first-class travelers, Delta’s Sky Club lounges offer an oasis of comfort at major airports.
Cons
- Limited Routes: Delta only operates direct flights from Mumbai to New York, meaning travelers from other Indian cities will need to connect to Delta’s services via another airline.
- Food Options: Delta’s food offerings in economy class, though satisfactory, may not appeal to those looking for Indian cuisine.
6. Etihad Airways
Overview
Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, is another popular Middle Eastern airline offering one-stop services between India and the USA. With a focus on luxury and comfort, Etihad is known for its world-class service.
Pros
- High-Quality Service: Etihad excels in providing premium services, particularly in business and first class, with features such as lie-flat seats and gourmet meals.
- Etihad Guest Program: Frequent flyers can benefit from their loyalty program, which offers a range of rewards and privileges.
- Stopover Programs: Etihad offers free stopovers in Abu Dhabi, allowing travelers to explore the city during a long layover.
Cons
- Layovers in Abu Dhabi: Similar to other Middle Eastern airlines, layovers can add travel time to your journey.
- Higher Ticket Costs: Etihad is generally more expensive than budget carriers, particularly for premium services.
Conclusion
When flying from India to the USA, travelers have a wide variety of airlines to choose from, each with its strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for direct flights, Air India, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines offer non-stop services, which can save time and reduce the hassle of layovers.
For those seeking luxury and top-tier service, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad Airways are ideal choices, though they come with longer travel times due to layovers. Ultimately, the right airline for you depends on your priorities—whether it’s price, comfort, service, or flight time.
To enhance your travel experience, consider using a travel-friendly credit card like Zolve, which offers benefits such as cashback on international purchases and no hidden fees, making your journey smoother and more rewarding.
Frequenetly Asked Questions
Which airline is the best to fly to India from the USA?
Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines are considered among the best for flying from the USA to India, offering great service, comfort, and convenient connections.
Which airlines are the best for international travel to the USA from India?
Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air India are popular choices for traveling from India to the USA, known for their reliable service, onboard comfort, and good connectivity.
What is the cheapest month to fly to the USA?
October is typically the cheapest month to fly to the USA, as it is considered off-peak for international travel.
Which city is the cheapest to fly from India to the USA?
Mumbai and New Delhi are often the cheapest cities to fly from India to the USA, offering multiple airline options and competitive fares.
Which US airline has the best economy class from India?
The best airlines for economy class from India are Singapore Airlines for its service and comfort, Qatar Airways for spacious seating, and Emirates for its luxurious amenities. Cathay Pacific and Air India also offer competitive economy services.