When Tata took over Air India in January 2022, expectations soared. Travellers believed the airline would finally reclaim its old glory and become a world-class carrier again. For many Indians, this hope was emotional. Air India was born under the Tata legacy before moving into government control decades ago.
So when the airline returned to Tata’s hands, people expected comfort, consistency, and pride to return quickly. Three years later, the reality on India to UK routes like New Delhi to London feels far more complicated. This article looks at what has changed, what has not, and why many passengers still prefer other airlines for India–UK travel.
A Brief History That Shapes Today’s Air India
Air India was originally founded by the Tata Group and later became a government-owned airline. Over the years, it struggled with losses, ageing aircraft, staff shortages, and inconsistent service.
When Tata reacquired Air India, it inherited not just an airline but decades of operational problems. Fixing that was never going to be quick. Still, passengers expected visible improvements, especially on long haul routes like Delhi to London.
Air India After Tata Takeover: What Has Actually Changed
A clear transformation plan
Air India launched a multi-year turnaround strategy focused on fleet upgrades, service quality, digital systems, and brand rebuilding. The airline announced major investments in cabin refurbishment, new aircraft, and IT systems.
The merger with Vistara was another big step. Vistara was known for better service standards, and many hoped this culture would flow into Air India.
New aircraft on selected routes
On routes like Delhi to London, Air India has introduced newer aircraft such as the Airbus A350 with:
- Cleaner cabins
- Better seats
- Improved inflight entertainment
- Premium Economy as a proper product
For passengers who get these aircraft, the experience genuinely feels improved.
Delhi to London Air India Flight Review
Why Passenger Experiences Feel So Mixed
Here is the core problem. Not every passenger gets the same Air India.
Some travellers fly the refreshed aircraft and talk positively about comfort and service. Others still fly older planes with worn seats, faulty screens, and tired cabins. This inconsistency is what hurts trust the most.
When two people take the same Delhi to London flight and have completely different experiences, word of mouth becomes unpredictable.
Why Passengers Are Avoiding Air India for India to UK Travel
1. Delay reputation in the UK
Air India has faced criticism for delays on UK routes. For travellers flying for work, family events, or onward connections, punctuality matters more than branding. Even a good onboard experience cannot make up for repeated delays.
2. Inconsistent long haul product
Travellers want to know what they are paying for. With Air India, the aircraft type often decides the experience more than the ticket class. This makes passengers nervous while booking.
3. Customer support frustrations
Many complaints are not about the flight itself but about what happens when something goes wrong. Refunds, schedule changes, and baggage issues can be stressful. For international travellers, especially elderly passengers, this becomes a deciding factor.
4. Trust issues after recent incidents
The recent Ahmedabad to London Air India accident deeply affected public confidence. While air travel remains statistically safe and investigations take time, such events shape perception strongly. For UK-bound travellers, this incident added another layer of hesitation.
Which Airlines Travellers Prefer Instead for India–UK Flights
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic
Many passengers prefer these airlines for:
- Predictable service standards
- Strong UK-based customer support
- Familiar Heathrow operations
They may cost more, but reliability often wins.
Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad
A large number of travellers choose one-stop flights via Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi because:
- Cabin quality is consistent across aircraft
- Transit airports are traveller-friendly
- Service recovery is stronger during disruptions
Even with longer travel time, peace of mind matters.
Turkish Airlines and European carriers
Some travellers choose Istanbul or European hubs for competitive pricing and flexible schedules, especially when London flight timings matter.
Where Air India Is Still Falling Short
Consistency across the fleet
Passengers do not want a surprise when they board. Air India needs faster and more uniform cabin upgrades.
Punctuality on international routes
India–UK flights are long and tiring. Delays add physical and mental stress, especially for families and elderly travellers.
Service recovery and communication
Clear communication during delays, faster refunds, and easier support access can dramatically change passenger perception.
Matching expectations with delivery
Air India marketing talks about a new era. When the experience does not match that promise, disappointment feels stronger than if expectations were lower.
What Air India Is Doing Right and Why It Still Matters
Despite criticism, it is important to acknowledge progress.
- Fleet modernisation is underway
- New aircraft are entering service
- Cabin upgrades are real, not just promises
- The Vistara merger can strengthen service culture over time
This is not a failing airline. It is an airline in transition.
Should You Fly Air India from Delhi to London in 2026
If you value:
- Direct flights
- Competitive pricing
- Indian food and familiar onboard environment
Air India can still work for you, especially if your flight uses the newer aircraft.
If you value:
- Predictability
- Punctuality
- Strong customer support during disruptions
You may feel more comfortable choosing British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, or a Gulf carrier.
Air India after the Tata takeover is not the airline people hoped for yet. But it is also not the airline it once was. Right now, flying Air India from India to the UK is a gamble between the old and the new. Until consistency improves, many travellers will continue to think twice before booking.
For Air India, winning back trust on routes like Delhi to London is not about grand announcements. It is about delivering the same solid experience on every single flight.