On the UAE-India corridor, Air India Express and IndiGo are the two low-cost heavyweights, between them covering a huge spread of Indian cities from all four UAE airports. Here is how they compare.
Network
Air India Express, Air India's low-cost arm, is especially strong to Kerala and flies dense frequencies from Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. IndiGo, India's largest airline, typically offers the widest spread of Indian destinations and the most schedule choice overall.
Baggage and value
Both are low-cost, so allowances depend on the fare and route. Air India Express often runs competitive baggage on labour-corridor routes, while IndiGo's international sectors usually include a checked allowance. As always, check the allowance on your fare and add extra at booking rather than the airport.
Who should fly which
- Flying to Kerala: Air India Express has dense, frequent service.
- Want the widest choice of Indian cities and schedules: IndiGo.
- Flying from Sharjah, Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah: both serve these, so compare.
- Chasing the lowest total fare: compare both with bags included for your date.
Compare both on your route using the search above, or read the Air India Express and IndiGo guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Air India Express or IndiGo better for UAE to India?
Air India Express is particularly strong to Kerala with dense frequencies, while IndiGo offers the widest choice of Indian cities and schedules. Compare both for your specific route and date.
Which has better baggage, Air India Express or IndiGo?
It varies by fare and route. Air India Express is often competitive on labour-corridor routes, and IndiGo's international fares usually include a checked bag. Check your fare and add extra at booking.