AIX Connect

Embark on a journey through the diverse and vibrant landscapes of India with AIX Connect, a dynamic low-cost carrier dedicated to making air travel both accessible and efficient. Formerly known to travelers as AirAsia India, this airline has evolved under the prestigious stewardship of the Tata Group to become a vital component of India's aviation network. Whether you are planning a beach getaway to Goa, a business trip to Bengaluru, or a cultural exploration of Jaipur, AIX Connect offers a seamless blend of modern service and reliable connectivity for your domestic travels.

Choosing AIX Connect for your travel within India comes with several distinct advantages designed to enhance the passenger experience:

Trusted Heritage and Reliability
Now fully owned by the Tata Group, AIX Connect operates with the values of trust and operational excellence associated with one of India's most respected conglomerates. The airline focuses heavily on punctuality and service quality, ensuring that your holiday schedule remains on track.

Modern and Comfortable Fleet
The airline operates a unified fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. These planes are configured to provide a comfortable experience for short to medium-haul domestic flights, featuring ergonomic seating and a modern cabin environment that meets international safety and comfort standards.

Culinary Delights with "Gourmair"
Unlike many budget carriers that offer only pre-packaged snacks, AIX Connect prides itself on its "Gourmair" hot meal service. Passengers can pre-book a variety of delicious hot meals, ranging from Indian regional favorites to international continental options, adding a touch of flavor to the journey.

Seamless Network Integration
AIX Connect is currently in the process of integrating with Air India Express to create a massive, unified low-cost network. For travelers arriving from international destinations like the UAE, this signifies a future of smoother connections and a wider reach across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India, making it easier to explore the country's hidden gems.

Contacting AIX Connect in the United Arab Emirates

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates should note that AIX Connect (I5) is currently in the advanced stages of integration with Air India Express. As a result, all customer support, ticket bookings, and inquiries for AIX Connect are handled through the unified Air India Express channels. While AIX Connect primarily operates domestic routes within India, travelers in the UAE booking connecting itineraries can rely on the extensive local presence of Air India Express in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi for assistance.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, bookings, and support, please visit the unified official website:

www.airindiaexpress.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.airindiaexpress.com
• UAE Customer Support (Dubai City Office): +971 4 266 6950
• UAE Airport Support (Dubai Int'l): +971 4 224 5555
• Flight Booking / Sales Agent (dnata): +971 6 597 0303
• Global 24/7 Contact Centre: +91 124 443 5600 / +91 124 693 5600
• Email Support: customersupport@airindiaexpress.com
• WhatsApp Support: +91 63600 12345 (Available 24/7)
• Mobile App: Air India Express (Available on iOS and Android)

Social Media

Stay updated with the latest news and announcements through their unified social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/AirIndiaX
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/AirIndiaX
• Instagram: instagram.com/AirIndiaX

Local Offices in the United Arab Emirates

Since AIX Connect operations are managed by Air India Express in this region, you can visit their local city offices for assistance:

• Dubai City Office:
  Dar Al Salam Building, Salah Al Din Road,
  Opposite Reef Mall, Deira, Dubai, UAE.
• Dubai Airport Office:
  Terminal 2, Dubai International Airport (DXB).

24/7 Emergency Support

If you are unable to reach a local office or require urgent assistance outside of business hours, we recommend using the 24/7 Global Contact Centre at +91 124 443 5600 or utilizing the "Tia" Chatbot on the official website and WhatsApp for immediate query resolution.

Baggage Policy

Traveling with AIX Connect is designed to be as convenient as possible, whether you are carrying just a backpack for a weekend getaway or suitcases full of souvenirs. As a low-cost carrier now operating under the unified umbrella of Air India Express, the airline offers transparent and flexible baggage policies. Understanding these allowances before you pack can help you breeze through check-in and avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers traveling on AIX Connect flights are entitled to a standard cabin baggage allowance. To ensure a smooth boarding process and safety on board, the following limits apply:

• Weight Limit: You can carry up to 7 kg of hand luggage. This weight limit applies to the total combined weight of your main cabin bag and any personal item.
• Piece Concept: The allowance generally permits one main cabin bag (such as a trolley bag or backpack) and one small personal item (such as a laptop bag, lady's handbag, or camera bag).
• Dimensions: The main cabin bag must fit within the dimensions of 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm to fit securely in the overhead bin. The personal item must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Information

AIX Connect primarily operates domestic routes within India, where baggage policies are tailored to standard regulatory norms. While specific allowances can vary based on the fare family you choose (e.g., Express Lite, Express Value, or Express Flex), the general guidelines are as follows:

• Standard Allowance: Most standard economy bookings for domestic flights typically include a complimentary checked baggage allowance of 15 kg.
• Lite Fares: Be aware that some promotional or "Lite" fares may not include any checked baggage allowance. In these cases, you can travel cabin-bag only or purchase a checked bag add-on separately.
• Dimensions: The total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of any checked bag should generally not exceed 158 cm.

If you are connecting from an international flight (for example, arriving from the UAE on Air India Express) onto an AIX Connect domestic flight on a single ticket, your international baggage allowance usually applies to the domestic sector as well. Always check your ticket endorsement to confirm.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you plan to carry more than the standard allowance, it is highly recommended to pre-book excess baggage online via the official website or mobile app. Pre-booking is significantly cheaper than paying for excess weight at the airport counter. Airport charges are calculated on a per-kilogram basis and can add up quickly.

Special Baggage

Traveling with non-standard items requires a little extra planning:

• Sports Equipment: items like golf kits, surfboards, or diving gear can often be carried as checked baggage. However, they may incur a special handling fee or oversize baggage charge depending on their weight and dimensions.
• Musical Instruments: Smaller instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in or, in some cases, may require booking an extra seat if they are fragile and cannot be checked.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly regulated:

• Prohibited in Cabin: Sharp objects (scissors, knives), tools, sporting goods like baseball bats, and liquids exceeding 100ml per container are not allowed in hand luggage.
• Prohibited in Checked Bags: Power banks, loose lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, and lighters must never be placed in checked luggage. These items must be carried with you in the cabin.
• General Prohibitions: Flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, and compressed gases are banned from all baggage.

Tips for Efficient Packing

Make your journey easier with these simple packing strategies:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure you are within the 15 kg limit (or your purchased allowance) to avoid stress at the check-in desk.
• Label Everything: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked bags. Placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a smart backup.
• Keep Valuables Close: Always pack travel documents, medication, jewelry, cash, and electronics in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage.

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, especially when flying with low-cost carriers that have specific restrictions. AIX Connect (currently integrating operations with Air India Express) maintains a strict policy regarding the carriage of live animals. Generally, the airline does not permit pets such as dogs, cats, or birds to travel in the aircraft cabin or as checked baggage on domestic or international routes. The only notable exception to this rule is for trained Service Animals assisting guests with disabilities.

Transport Options

Because AIX Connect focuses on operational efficiency, its infrastructure is not currently set up to handle household pets. Travelers should be aware of the following specific regulations for different modes of transport:

In Cabin (Carry-on)

For the vast majority of passengers, carrying a pet in the cabin is not permitted. This restriction applies to all standard household pets, regardless of size or breed. However, specific accommodations are made for assistance dogs.

• Service Animals Only: Only trained service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities (e.g., visual or hearing impairments) are permitted in the cabin.
• Carrier Requirements: Service dogs typically do not require a cage but must be harnessed and leashed at all times.
• Seating Restrictions: The animal must sit at the passenger's feet and cannot occupy a passenger seat. They must fit within the floor space of the assigned seat and cannot obstruct the aisle or emergency exits.
• Weight Limits: While there is no strict weight limit specified for service dogs, they must be of a manageable size to fit safely in the footwell.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

AIX Connect does not offer a facility for checking pets into the aircraft hold as accompanied baggage.

• Availability: This service is currently unavailable for all domestic and international flights.
• Alternative: Passengers wishing to travel with pets as checked baggage are advised to book with the airline's full-service partner, Air India, which has dedicated facilities for pet transport.

As Cargo (Freight)

The airline does not accept live animals for transport as unaccompanied cargo.

• Policy: The airline's cargo division focuses on general freight and perishables, not live animal transportation.
• Recommendation: For moving larger animals or unaccompanied pets, travelers should consult specialized animal transport logistics companies or full-service airlines.

Required Documentation

For passengers traveling with a Service Animal, proper documentation is mandatory to ensure boarding. You must present the following at the check-in counter:

• Medical Certificate: A valid certificate from a registered veterinarian confirming the animal is healthy and fit to fly.
• Vaccination Records: Up-to-date vaccination history, specifically showing a valid Anti-Rabies Vaccination (administered at least 1 month prior to travel).
• Training Certificate: Credible documentation or identification proving the dog is a trained service animal.
• Indemnity Form: Passengers may be required to sign a liability release form at the airport.

Service Costs

The cost structure for animal transport on AIX Connect is straightforward due to the limited scope of service:

• Service Animals: Typically carried free of charge when accompanying a passenger with a disability, provided all documentation is in order.
• Standard Pets: Not applicable, as they are not accepted for carriage.

Preparation Tips

If you are traveling with a Service Animal, following these tips will ensure a smoother journey:

• Pre-Notification: Contact the airline's support team at least 48 hours before departure to declare your service animal and ensure the crew is prepared.
• Feeding: Feed your dog a light meal approximately 4 hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness or the need to relieve themselves on board.
• Relief: Ensure your service dog has had a chance to relieve itself immediately before entering the terminal, as airport relief areas may be limited.
• Identification: Keep the dog's service vest or harness on at all times to help airport staff and other passengers identify them as a working animal.

Restrictions

To ensure safety and compliance, the following strict limitations apply:

• Prohibited Animals: All household pets (cats, birds, rabbits, etc.) are strictly prohibited in the cabin and hold.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Unlike service dogs, ESAs are generally not recognized as service animals and may be refused carriage under the standard "no pet" policy.
• Behavior: Even service animals may be denied boarding if they display aggressive behavior, such as growling, biting, or jumping on other passengers.

Important: Airline policies regarding animal transport can be subject to change, especially during the ongoing integration with Air India Express. We strongly recommend contacting AIX Connect / Air India Express customer support directly or checking the official website before booking your ticket to confirm the most current rules.

Loyalty Program: NeuPass

Travelers flying with AIX Connect can take advantage of one of India's most comprehensive rewards ecosystems: NeuPass. As part of the Tata Group's aviation family, and amidst its ongoing integration with Air India Express, AIX Connect offers passengers the opportunity to earn and redeem rewards not just on flights, but across a wide range of lifestyle brands. Whether you are a frequent flyer on domestic routes or an occasional traveler connecting from the UAE, the NeuPass program is designed to add value to every journey.

The program is centered around the Tata Neu "super-app," which serves as the single gateway for managing your membership, tracking rewards, and booking travel. Unlike traditional airline-specific frequent flyer schemes, NeuPass provides a more holistic approach, allowing you to accumulate benefits through everyday spending and travel alike.

Key Features of NeuPass

The program is designed to be simple, transparent, and rewarding. Here is what you can expect as a member:

• NeuCoins Currency: The heart of the program is the NeuCoin. Members earn NeuCoins on eligible flight bookings, as well as on spending with partner brands (including hotels, electronics, and fashion). One NeuCoin is typically equivalent to ₹1 (Indian Rupee), making it easy to understand the value of your rewards.
• Seamless Earning: You can earn NeuCoins when you book AIX Connect flights directly through the Tata Neu app or the unified airline website. Points are credited after you complete your journey.
• Flexible Redemption: NeuCoins can be used to pay for future flight tickets, covering either the partial or full cost of the fare. They can also be redeemed for ancillary services such as "Gourmair" hot meals, extra baggage allowance, or preferred seat selection.
• Unified Benefits: Due to the operational integration, your NeuPass membership is valid across both AIX Connect and Air India Express, ensuring a consistent reward experience whether you are flying internationally to India or hopping between domestic cities.

Membership Tiers and Badges

NeuPass often features a tiered structure or "badges" that recognize loyal customers. As you fly more frequently or spend more within the ecosystem, you may unlock exclusive privileges. While specific benefits can evolve, higher-tier members typically enjoy perks such as:

• Priority Services: Faster check-in and priority baggage handling at select airports.
• Complimentary Add-ons: Free seat selection or complimentary meals on board.
• Exclusive Deals: Early access to flight sales and member-only fares.

How to Join

Joining the loyalty program is free and digital-first. To start earning rewards:

1. Download the Tata Neu app on your smartphone (available on iOS and Android).
2. Register using your mobile number and email address.
3. Link your membership ID when booking flights on the AIX Connect or Air India Express websites.

By consolidating rewards under the Tata Neu umbrella, AIX Connect ensures that your loyalty travels further, turning every trip into an opportunity for savings on your next adventure.

Services and Classes on Board

As a value-focused low-cost carrier, AIX Connect (operating in close integration with Air India Express) is designed to provide efficient and affordable travel without compromising on safety or essential comforts. While the airline does not offer traditional multi-class cabins like First or Business Class, it provides a high-quality Economy product with various options to tailor your experience to your needs.

Service Classes

AIX Connect operates a single-class Economy configuration across its entire fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. This streamlined approach allows for competitive fares and operational efficiency.

• Economy Class: The standard travel class offering a comfortable journey with access to buy-on-board services.
• No Business or First Class: Travelers accustomed to full-service carriers should note that there are no separate Business or First Class cabins, flat-bed seats, or curtains dividing the aircraft.
• Premium Seat Options: While there is no separate cabin, passengers can purchase an "upgrade" in comfort by selecting Premium Seats (often branded as Xpress Prime or Hot Seats). These are typically located in the front rows or emergency exit rows, offering significantly extra legroom and priority deplaning.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The cabin interior is modern and designed to maximize space utilization while maintaining passenger comfort for short to medium-haul flights.

• Layout: The aircraft features a standard 3-3 configuration (three seats on the left, a single aisle, and three seats on the right).
• Seat Pitch and Width: Standard seats offer a pitch of approximately 28-29 inches. Seats are ergonomically designed with leather upholstery to provide adequate support during the flight.
• Extra Legroom: For taller passengers or those desiring more space, pre-booking an emergency exit row seat or a front-row seat increases the pitch to approximately 32 inches or more.

In-Flight Dining: Gourmair

One of the highlights of flying with AIX Connect is its celebrated dining service, known as Gourmair. Unlike the basic snack services found on many budget airlines, Gourmair offers a curated menu of hot meals.

• Hot Meals: The menu features a diverse range of Indian and international cuisines, including MasterChef specials, lite bites, and healthy options. Choices range from classic Biryanis to continental sandwiches.
• Pre-Booking Recommended: While limited snacks and beverages are available for purchase on board, hot meals must usually be pre-booked at least 24 hours before departure. Pre-booking not only guarantees your meal choice but also offers savings compared to onboard prices.
• Beverages: A selection of hot and cold beverages, including tea, coffee, juices, and soft drinks, is available for purchase.

In-Flight Entertainment

To keep fares low, AIX Connect does not install seatback screens (IFEs). Instead, the airline embraces a digital-first approach to entertainment.

• AirFlix: Passengers can access the complimentary in-flight streaming hub, AirFlix. By connecting your personal smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the aircraft's local Wi-Fi network, you can stream a curated library of movies, TV shows, web series, and music videos directly to your device.
• No Internet: It is important to note that the onboard Wi-Fi is a local network for the streaming service only; it does not provide access to the wider internet, email, or messaging apps.
• USB Charging: Some aircraft may not be equipped with individual power outlets or USB ports at every seat, so it is highly recommended to bring a fully charged power bank.

Special Services

AIX Connect is committed to making travel accessible for everyone and offers a range of special assistance services.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available at all airports. Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance to ensure staff availability.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant travelers are welcome on board up to certain stages of pregnancy. Expectant mothers between 28 and 35 weeks usually require a "Fit to Fly" certificate from a doctor. Travel is generally not permitted after 36 weeks for uncomplicated pregnancies.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline generally restricts travel for children under 12 traveling alone. Young fliers must usually be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. It is advisable to check the specific "Young Guest" policies during booking if you plan to send a minor alone.
• Infants: Infants (under 2 years old) can travel on an adult's lap for a nominal fee. The airline provides infant seat belts for safety during takeoff, landing, and turbulence.

Explore the diverse tapestry of India with AIX Connect's extensive domestic network, designed to link major metropolitan hubs with emerging Tier-2 cities and leisure hotspots. Anchored by its primary hub at Bengaluru (Kempegowda International Airport), the airline ensures seamless connectivity for travelers exploring the subcontinent. For passengers arriving from the UAE via the partner airline Air India Express, AIX Connect offers convenient onward options to a wide variety of destinations, ranging from sunny beaches to cultural capitals.

Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airline's network covers key locations across the country. Popular destinations served by AIX Connect include:

• Metropolitan Hubs: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
• Leisure & Tourism Spots: The sunny beaches of Goa, the scenic hills of Srinagar, and the historic pink city of Jaipur.
• Key Regional Cities: Kochi, Guwahati, and other emerging centers of trade and tourism.

Securing the best value when flying with AIX Connect (I5) often requires a bit of forward planning. To lock in lower fares, try to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance, as prices typically increase closer to the departure date. Keep a close watch for seasonal sales and special promotions, which are frequently announced on the airline's official channels. Being flexible with your travel dates can also help you find significantly cheaper options, especially if you avoid peak holiday periods.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in facility available through the website or mobile app. This service allows you to avoid long queues at the check-in counters and often lets you download a mobile boarding pass directly to your device. It is advisable to complete this process as early as possible to ensure a smooth start to your journey.

For a more comfortable flight, consider pre-selecting your seat during the booking or check-in process. Whether you prefer a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for easy access, reserving your spot in advance guarantees your preference, often for a nominal fee. Additionally, downloading the mobile app is highly recommended for managing your itinerary, receiving real-time flight updates, and adding extras like meals or baggage.

Finally, do not overlook the importance of travel insurance. While AIX Connect strives for punctuality, having insurance provides essential coverage for unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies, allowing you to travel with complete peace of mind.

History and Development

The story of AIX Connect is a compelling chapter in the modern aviation history of India, marked by strategic partnerships, rapid growth, and a return to a legendary heritage. Originally established to redefine low-cost travel in the Indian skies, the airline has transformed significantly from its inception to its current role as a key pillar in the Tata Group's aviation empire.

Founding and Early Years

The airline was incorporated in 2013 as a joint venture between Tata Sons and the Malaysia-based AirAsia Aviation Group. This partnership was historic, as it marked the return of the Tata Group to the aviation industry after decades and was the first time a foreign airline established a subsidiary in India. Operating under the brand name AirAsia India, the carrier aimed to bring the "everyone can fly" philosophy to the Indian market, promising affordable fares and high operational efficiency.

Taking to the Skies

Operations officially commenced on June 12, 2014, with a maiden flight from Bengaluru to Goa. Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport became the airline's primary hub, serving as the launchpad for its ambitious network expansion. In the early years, the airline focused heavily on connecting Tier-1 metros with Tier-2 cities, filling a vital gap in India's domestic connectivity and enabling tourism in emerging destinations.

Fleet Evolution and Expansion

From the beginning, the airline adopted a unified fleet strategy to maintain low maintenance costs and high reliability. It started with a small fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft and steadily expanded. Reaching the milestone of 20 aircraft was a significant goal, as local regulations at the time required this fleet size before an airline could apply for international operations. By sticking to the A320 family, the carrier ensured a consistent passenger experience and streamlined crew training.

A Shift in Ownership

A pivotal moment in the airline's history occurred as the Tata Group sought to consolidate its aviation investments. Over time, Tata Sons increased its stake in the venture, and by December 2020, it held a majority share. The complete transformation began in 2022, when Tata Sons acquired the remaining equity from AirAsia Berhad, making the airline a 100% Indian-owned entity. This acquisition was part of a broader strategy by the Tata Group to reorganize its airline assets, which also included the acquisition of the national carrier, Air India.

Rebranding to AIX Connect

Following the full acquisition, the airline underwent a formal name change to AIX Connect in late 2022. While the "AirAsia" livery remained on the aircraft for a transition period, the corporate identity shifted to align with the Tata Group's vision. This rebranding was the first step toward a massive integration project aimed at creating a unified low-cost carrier entity.

Merger and Modern Developments

Today, AIX Connect is in the advanced stages of merging with Air India Express. This strategic move is designed to create a formidable low-cost network that leverages AIX Connect's domestic strength and Air India Express's extensive international reach, particularly to the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Modern innovations have accompanied this merger, including the rollout of the new unified Air India Express brand identity, a revamped digital booking experience, and the introduction of "Gourmair," a standardized dining service across both carriers.