Top Airlines Offering Cheap Flights to India
A nonstop or U.S. to India direct flight provides the convenience of travel with reduced transit time, making it an ideal option for business travelers and others who value efficiency. A variety of airlines provide cheap, direct flights from the USA to India. Here are some of the prominent ones:
Find Major Airports in India
India’s vast expanse is serviced by several international and domestic airports, each of which offers various modes of ground transportation to popular destinations. Here is a guide to the primary airports in the country and their transportation options:
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
As the busiest airport in India, Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi, connects major domestic and international routes. From the airport, you can avail of Metro services, and prepaid taxis, or choose to ride on the Airport Express Line, a dedicated rail line that connects the airport with the city center in just 20 minutes.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM)
Located in the financial capital of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai, has a robust public transportation network. The most convenient way to travel to downtown Mumbai from the airport is by prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Uber or Ola. Alternatively, you can take a local train, although it can be crowded during peak hours.
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR)
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bangalore, has a well-organized system of taxis and ride-sharing services with dedicated pick-up zones. The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) provides regular bus service from the airport to various parts of the city.
Chennai International Airport (MAA)
From Chennai International Airport (MAA), Chennai, you can use the Metro Rail system to reach the city center. There are also prepaid taxis available at the airport that can take you to any destination within the city.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)
At Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata, you can avail yourself of the services of prepaid taxis and app-based cabs to reach your desired destination in the city. Alternatively, the airport is connected to the city center through the Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Metro Station, offering a quick and cost-effective commute.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD)
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD), Hyderabad, offers efficient and convenient transport options such as prepaid taxis, app-based cab services like Uber and Ola, and the Pushpak – Airport Liner, connecting it with major points in the city.
Flights to India Snapshot
Economy Class
TOTAL NUMBER OF ECONOMY CLASS DEALS TO India IN THE LAST MONTH
152
AVERAGE ONEAIR INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY ROUNDTRIP DEAL TO India
$895
Business Class
TOTAL NUMBER OF BUSINESS CLASS DEALS TO India IN THE LAST MONTH
38
AVERAGE ONEAIR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CLASS ROUNDTRIP DEAL TO India
$3493
The Cheapest Time to Fly to India
The cheapest months to fly from the U.S. to India are typically during the low season, which runs from April to September. During these months, flight prices tend to be lower due to decreased demand, as the weather in India can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching over 100°F (38°C) in many parts of the country.
Additionally, July to September sees the arrival of the monsoon season, which brings heavy rainfall to most regions. Despite the challenging weather conditions, this can be a good time to visit if you’re looking to save money on your flight and don’t mind the heat or the rain.
On the other hand, the most expensive periods to fly from the U.S. to India are usually during the peak tourist seasons, which include the cool season (October to March) and major festivals like Diwali (usually in October or November) and Holi (usually in March). During the cool season, flight prices can be higher due to increased demand, as many tourists prefer to visit India when the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-30°C).
Cheapest months to fly
April to September
Most Expensive Months to Fly
October to March
Compare Prices
Here’s a breakdown of air tickets to India Indira Gandhi International (DEL)
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is a flight to India?
The duration of flying to India from the USA varies depending on the departure and arrival airports. Nonstop flights from the U.S. to major Indian cities range from 13-17 hours, while flights with stops can take up to 25 hours.
2. What’s the best time to go to India?
The cheapest month to fly to India from the United States is usually February. However, it’s important to note that prices can vary depending on the airline, departure location, and time of year.
In addition, India is a land known for its colorful festivities and grand celebrations. While these events provide a fascinating glimpse into the country’s cultural richness, they can also significantly impact your travel plans. Here are a few that you should consider:
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- Hemis Festival (June/July): The Hemis Festival, celebrated in the remarkable Hemis Monastery in Ladakh, is a vibrant two-day affair that commemorates the birth of Guru Padmasambhava. It is characterized by its mesmerizing Cham dance, a masked and costumed dance that symbolizes the banishment of evil spirits, accompanied by the energetic rhythms of traditional musical instruments.
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- Holi (March): Holi, often referred to as the “Festival of Colors”, is a boisterous celebration marking the arrival of spring. It involves people throwing colored powder and water at each other, creating a vibrant spectacle of joy symbolizing the victory of good over evil, and fostering a sense of unity and renewal.
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- Navaratri (October): Navaratri is a significant Hindu festival revered for its spiritual value. For nine nights, participants indulge in fasting, prayer, and dance to honor the divine feminine Devi Durga, culminating in a grand celebration that brings together families and communities.
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- Dussehra (September/October): Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over the ten-headed demon king Ravana, a symbol of the triumph of good over evil. It features dramatic enactments of the Ramayana epic, effigy burnings of Ravana, and a variety of cultural performances.
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- Diwali (October/November): Diwali, revered as the “Festival of Lights,” is one of India’s most significant celebrations, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. This five-day festivity witnesses the illumination of cities and homes with millions of earthen lamps or ‘diyas,’ the bursting of fireworks, exchanging gifts, and feasting on sweet delicacies.
3. What are the airports operating flights to India?
Numerous airports in the US provide flights to India, with the top three being Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). These airports connect to India’s three major hubs: New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
4. Which airlines fly from the United States to India?
Several airlines operate flights from the United States to India. Major ones include Air India, American Airlines, Emirates, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines. These airlines provide direct or nonstop services from key U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and Newark to major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
5. Can I go to India without a visa?
No, U.S. citizens cannot travel to India without a visa. All US citizens must have a valid visa to India before they depart. India does not provide a visa on arrival for U.S. citizens and most other foreign travelers. Instead, you can apply for an e-Visa online, which, if approved, must be presented upon arrival in India.
6. What is the flight distance between major U.S. cities and India?
Brace yourself for a long-haul flight from any major U.S. city to India. Distances to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru range from 11,753 kilometers (7,302 miles) to 13,688 kilometers (8,509 miles), depending on the route. Los Angeles (LAX) is usually the farthest U.S. city from India, while New York City (JFK) might be slightly closer. Remember, these are estimates and the distance may vary depending on the airline’s specific route.
7. How far in advance should I book my flight to get the best deals?
The ideal booking window for flights depends on your destination. International flights are cheaper if booked 2 to 4 months in advance, though there can be some variation.
8. What are some tips for finding the cheapest flights to India?
Be flexible with travel dates and destinations. Book flights in advance to secure better prices. Use flight search engines like OneAir to compare prices from different airlines. Consider budget airlines, but factor in additional fees for checked bags, seat selection, and other services.