Air India has announced the expansion of its Maharaja Club loyalty programme to include flights operated by Air India Express. The development allows passengers to earn and redeem loyalty points on more than 55 routes operated by Air India Express, providing additional travel benefits for frequent flyers.
The integration marks a significant step in the ongoing restructuring and modernization efforts being carried out within the Tata Group’s aviation business. By extending Maharaja Club benefits to Air India Express services, the airline group aims to create a more unified travel and rewards experience for customers across both full-service and low-cost operations.
Under the updated programme, eligible passengers traveling on Air India Express flights will be able to accumulate Maharaja Points, which can later be redeemed for flight bookings, upgrades, and other travel-related services within the airline network. The expansion is expected to benefit passengers who frequently travel on domestic and regional routes served by Air India Express.
Industry experts believe the move could help increase customer loyalty and encourage repeat travel within the Air India group. Airline loyalty programmes have become an important strategy for global carriers to attract and retain passengers by offering rewards, travel flexibility, and additional services.
Air India Express operates a large network connecting Indian cities with domestic destinations as well as international routes, especially in the Gulf region and nearby international markets. The inclusion of these flights within the Maharaja Club programme significantly expands the number of travel options available to loyalty members.
The aviation sector in India has become increasingly competitive, with airlines focusing on customer experience, digital services, and loyalty benefits to strengthen market position. Analysts say integrating loyalty programmes across airline subsidiaries can improve customer retention and operational coordination.
The Maharaja Club programme, previously known under a different branding structure before recent reforms, has undergone several changes as part of Air India’s transformation plans after its acquisition by the Tata Group. The airline has been focusing on fleet modernization, service improvements, digital integration, and international expansion in recent years.
Passengers and travel industry observers have welcomed the decision, especially frequent flyers who regularly use Air India Express for regional travel. Many customers believe the expanded rewards system could provide greater value and flexibility for both leisure and business travelers.
Aviation experts note that loyalty programmes play a major role in influencing travel decisions, particularly among regular passengers. Offering reward points across a broader route network can improve customer engagement and create stronger brand loyalty.
The airline industry globally has increasingly adopted integrated rewards ecosystems where passengers can use loyalty points across partner airlines, hotel bookings, and related services. Air India’s latest move reflects a similar strategy aimed at strengthening its competitive position in the aviation market.
The announcement also highlights the growing coordination between Air India and Air India Express as both carriers continue aligning operations under the Tata Group’s aviation restructuring plans. The integration is expected to create a smoother travel experience for passengers using multiple airline services within the group.
Travelers are advised to check eligibility rules, reward structures, and redemption policies through official airline channels before booking flights or using Maharaja Club benefits.