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Cheap international flights have become more accessible than ever for Indian travelers in 2025, all thanks to the surge in budget airlines offering affordable global connections. Whether you’re a student heading overseas, a family going on a holiday, or a professional on an international assignment, low-cost carriers are changing how we travel abroad. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover the best budget airlines for international travel from India, what they offer, and how you can get the most value from them.
By flying with budget airlines, Indian travelers now have the opportunity to explore distant destinations without financial strain. These carriers offer competitive fares, optimized flight paths, and a variety of service options that allow for tailored travel experiences. From quick weekend getaways to extended global adventures, budget airlines are making international dreams a reality for more people.
Why Opt for Budget Airlines for Global Journeys?
Budget airlines have earned immense popularity for their cost-efficiency, convenience, and expanding route options. Indian travelers now enjoy direct and connecting international flights to destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, thanks to these carriers. With rising demand, several Indian and foreign budget airlines have enhanced their operations from key Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
The biggest advantage of flying with these airlines is the ability to cut travel costs without sacrificing safety or essential comforts. Travelers can pay only for what they need—be it meals, baggage, or seat preferences—making these flights highly customizable.
Additionally, budget airlines have become increasingly competitive, introducing loyalty rewards, holiday packages, and flexible fare options. These improvements make it easier for travelers to plan smart, affordable itineraries. For many Indians, especially those embarking on their first international trips, budget airlines offer a wallet-friendly way to explore the world.
Many budget airlines have upgraded their fleet, introduced eco-friendly initiatives, and improved the overall customer experience. Passengers can now enjoy efficient boarding, better punctuality, and modern aircraft interiors, even on low-cost tickets. These advancements are helping budget carriers close the gap with traditional airlines.
Top Budget Airlines for International Travel from India in 2025
Here’s a closer look at the best budget airlines for international travel from India, including their routes, prices, inflight services, and tips to get the best deals.
1. IndiGo
IndiGo has established itself as a top choice for international budget travel from India. Famous for its punctuality and efficiency, it now offers direct flights to Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, and Istanbul. By 2025, IndiGo is adding even more destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Its pricing is transparent, helping travelers easily spot the cheapest flights. IndiGo’s website and app feature fare alerts and travel bundles. While the airline doesn’t offer luxury, it excels in on-time performance and responsive support—key features for international trips.
Frequent travelers appreciate its reliable schedule and clear baggage policies, helping them avoid hidden costs. IndiGo is also expanding international partnerships, improving long-haul connectivity.
IndiGo has also introduced eco-conscious flying options, such as carbon offset programs and digital boarding passes. These upgrades reflect the airline’s commitment to both affordability and sustainability.
2. Air India Express
A low-cost arm of Air India, Air India Express mainly caters to Gulf routes like Dubai, Sharjah, Muscat, and Kuala Lumpur. Operating from major and smaller Indian cities, it brings international travel within reach for more people.
The airline’s fares often include meals and checked baggage, offering more value. For travelers on a budget seeking a bit more comfort, Air India Express hits the mark.
Looking forward, it plans to broaden services in Southeast Asia. With a more user-friendly website and better customer service, it’s a viable option for economical international flights.
The airline is also working on upgrading its onboard entertainment options and improving mobile check-in features to enhance the travel experience.
3. Akasa Air
Akasa Air, a fresh entrant in the Indian aviation market, has rolled out international services as of 2025. It focuses on the Middle East and Southeast Asia, catering to budget-conscious flyers. Despite being new, it’s already gaining popularity for its sleek aircraft, vibrant branding, and competitive rates.
Akasa offers an affordable yet comfy flight experience. It’s expanding routes quickly from major metros. Travelers praise its easy booking and responsive service.
Eco-conscious passengers are drawn to its sustainability measures, like fuel-efficient planes and minimal plastic use. Akasa is on a mission to make international flying both inclusive and environmentally friendly.
Additional services like bundled holiday deals and flexible rebooking options are also helping Akasa stand out in the crowded budget travel market.
4. AirAsia
AirAsia continues to lead as a top low-cost carrier for Indian flyers. Based out of Kuala Lumpur, it connects India to much of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Popular for its “Big Sale” fares and BIG Points loyalty program, it’s a favorite among frequent travelers.
Its ticket model is fully customizable—add baggage, meals, or seats as you wish. The app is intuitive and even offers hotel bookings, insurance, and visa support.
With regional airline tie-ups, AirAsia makes it easy to extend trips across Asia. Service quality and baggage handling have also seen consistent improvements.
With its strategic partnerships and joint ventures, AirAsia makes multi-destination travel seamless and budget-friendly for Indian globetrotters.
5. Scoot
A Singapore Airlines subsidiary, Scoot is another solid option for budget global travel. Flying out of cities like Chennai, Amritsar, and Hyderabad, it connects India to Singapore and beyond. Known for cleanliness and efficiency, Scoot provides a reliable, cost-effective flying experience.
Scoot’s fare structure includes various options based on your budget. Regular deals and bundled offers make it easy to save without giving up quality.
Ties with Singapore Airlines also offer mileage perks and top-tier safety standards. This combo of value and premium reliability makes Scoot a standout budget choice.
Travelers also benefit from Scoot’s easy transit process at Changi Airport, one of the world’s top-ranked international hubs.
6. FlyDubai
Based in the UAE, FlyDubai offers solid links between Indian cities and the Middle East, with further global access via Emirates codeshare. Known for affordable fares and decent comfort, it’s expanding rapidly in 2025.
The airline now connects to newer markets in Central Asia and Eastern Europe, ideal for travelers seeking less-traveled paths. A rare feature among budget airlines, FlyDubai even offers business class seats.
Frequent promotions, modern aircraft, and a growing list of destinations make it a strong contender for affordable global travel.
7. SalamAir
SalamAir, operating from Oman, provides direct, budget-friendly flights from India to Muscat and other Gulf cities. It delivers good value with dependable service and basic onboard features.
It’s growing steadily with flexible deals and seasonal offers, appealing to both business and leisure travelers. More Indians are turning to SalamAir for simple, affordable Gulf travel.
SalamAir is also developing strategic codeshares to extend its reach into Europe and Africa.
8. VietJet Air
Vietnam’s VietJet Air now connects Delhi and Mumbai to cities like Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Da Nang. Known for its rock-bottom fares, it’s a gateway to Southeast Asia.
The airline frequently promotes deals that include hotel stays—perfect for tourists. With plans to branch out into Northeast Asia, VietJet is cementing its place as a go-to for budget Eastern travel.
Enhanced customer support and multi-lingual services are helping VietJet cater better to international travelers.
9. Jazeera Airways
Operating out of Kuwait, Jazeera Airways serves Indian travelers heading to the Gulf and even Europe. It runs direct flights from multiple Indian cities and facilitates further travel via its Kuwait base.
With upgraded planes, improved service, and clear pricing, Jazeera is ideal for budget flyers heading west.
Their onboard shopping and premium cabin upgrades offer additional value without straining the wallet.
10. Batik Air
Formerly known as Malindo Air, Batik Air has grown into a reliable choice for budget travel from India to Southeast Asia and Australia. Operating from major Indian hubs like Mumbai and Chennai, Batik Air offers flights to destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Bali, and Perth.
Its in-flight entertainment, onboard meals, and generous baggage allowance make it a favorite among travelers seeking more amenities at competitive prices. Batik Air’s parent company, Lion Air Group, helps provide a broad network and dependable service.
The airline’s seamless booking platform and regular fare discounts ensure a value-driven experience for Indian globetrotters. With plans for further expansion into East Asia and the Pacific, Batik Air is well-positioned for 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best budget airlines for international travel from India in 2025?
Some of the top low-cost airlines include IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air, AirAsia, Scoot, FlyDubai, SalamAir, VietJet Air, Jazeera Airways, and Batik Air. These carriers offer affordable and reliable options for international travelers.
2. Which Indian cities have budget international flights in 2025?
Budget airlines operate from major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, and also from tier-2 cities such as Kochi, Amritsar, and Trichy for select Gulf and Southeast Asia routes.
3. Are budget airlines safe for international travel?
Yes, all budget airlines follow international safety regulations. Leading carriers like IndiGo, Scoot, and AirAsia have excellent safety records and are audited regularly for compliance.
4. How can I book the cheapest international flights from India?
Use fare trackers, book 6–12 weeks in advance, search in incognito mode, and check for mid-week flights. Airlines’ official sites and apps often feature exclusive discounts and bundled deals.
5. Do budget airlines offer free baggage for international flights?
Most budget airlines charge for checked baggage. However, some like Air India Express and Batik Air include baggage in their fare. Always review the fare structure before confirming your booking.
6. Can I travel to Europe on a budget airline from India?
Yes, through connecting routes. FlyDubai, Jazeera Airways, and SalamAir can take you to Europe with a stopover in the Middle East, often at a fraction of the cost of direct flights.
7. Which budget airline is best for Southeast Asia travel?
AirAsia, Scoot, VietJet, and Batik Air are top choices due to their expansive Southeast Asian networks, frequent promotions, and convenient connections from Indian metros.
8. Are meals included in budget airline international flights?
Meals are generally not included unless specified. Some airlines like Air India Express offer complimentary meals, while others sell them onboard or during booking.
9. Do budget airlines support visa assistance?
A few do. AirAsia and Scoot may provide visa services through travel partners. However, it’s safer to arrange your visa separately unless clearly offered by the airline.
10. What are the hidden charges to watch out for in budget airlines?
Additional costs may include checked baggage, meals, preferred seats, early check-in, and flight changes. Always read the fare details carefully to avoid surprises later.
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[…] Cheap flights are more accessible than ever, and that has revolutionized the way people travel. In today’s connected world, flying is no longer an exclusive luxury; it’s become a viable option for students, families, backpackers, and digital nomads alike. Budget airlines have opened up countless travel possibilities, offering airfare at a fraction of the cost of traditional carriers. […]