Why Finding Cheap Business Class Tickets to India from the USA is Tough (But Not Impossible)

There are a couple of reasons why business class tickets from the USA to India can be so expensive:

• Unprecedented Demand: Skulux data shows that business class travel on this route has been the number one most in-demand route for over a year now. This surge in demand is due to a combination of factors:

  • The travel industry bouncing back from the pandemic, with limited seat availability in business class.
  • A growing number of adult children in the USA want to give their parents in India a luxurious travel experience.

• Premium Experience: Business class offers significant perks compared to economy, including lie-flat seats, gourmet meals and drinks, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges. Airlines can justify a higher price tag for this exclusive service.

Here are some tips to find cheaper business class tickets to India from the USA:

• Be Flexible: This is key! Be open to flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons like the monsoon months (June-August) or shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) when tourist crowds are smaller. Flights are generally cheaper during these times.

• Explore Alternative Routes: Consider connecting flights with layovers in other countries. While it might add travel time, it could be significantly cheaper than a non-stop flight.

• Become a Deal Hunter: Airlines and travel websites often run promotions and sales on business class tickets, especially during weekdays or less popular travel times. Sign up for email alerts from airlines and travel websites like Google Flights or Kayak to stay informed about these deals.

• Travel Rewards: If you have accumulated points or miles through travel credit cards or loyalty programs, you can use them for discounted or even free business class tickets. This can be a fantastic way to save money, but it requires planning ahead to accumulate enough points or miles.

• Bidding for Upgrades: Some airlines allow passengers to bid on upgrades to business class. This can be a gamble, but it’s a potential way to snag a cheaper seat, especially if the flight isn’t fully booked in business class.

• Explore Alternative Airlines: Major airlines with established routes might be pricier. Research options from other carriers offering business class to India. They might have more competitive fares, especially for routes with less demand.