India is a vast and vibrant destination, from the bustling streets of Delhi and Mumbai to the serene backwaters of Kerala and the historic palaces of Rajasthan. Whether you’re visiting family, heading home for the holidays, or taking a short break to explore, choosing the right airline for your flights to India can make all the difference in cost, comfort, and convenience. With the journey from the U.S. and Canada taking many hours, the right airline and route can help you save money, enjoy better service, and arrive refreshed.

India is a year-round destination, but peak travel times—such as major festivals and holiday seasons—can drive ticket prices higher. The good news? With thoughtful planning, you can still find affordable fares without sacrificing comfort or service.

In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best airlines for flights to India from the U.S. and Canada, along with popular routes that often offer excellent value. Call ASAP Tickets at 844-300-7983 to find today’s lowest fares.

Why Book Early for Flights to India?

Airfare to India can fluctuate significantly. Prices often rise closer to the departure date, especially during busy travel periods such as Diwali, Christmas, and school holidays. By booking early, you not only secure a better price but also have more options for preferred departure times, layovers, and seat selection.

It’s also worth noting that certain airlines release their cheapest seats months in advance. The earlier you start looking, the more likely you’ll grab those deals before they disappear.

Best Airlines for Flights to India

Choosing the right airline is about more than just price. Comfort, flight schedules, onboard amenities, and baggage allowance can all affect your travel experience. Below are some of the top airlines flying from the U.S. to India, known for their quality service and competitive fares.

Air India

Air India is the country’s national carrier, offering direct flights from U.S. cities such as New York, Newark, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. to major Indian hubs like Delhi and Mumbai. Direct routes mean shorter travel times, making Air India a popular choice for travelers who want to avoid long layovers.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is consistently ranked among the world’s best airlines. It connects U.S. cities to India via Doha, with excellent connections to destinations like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Many travelers praise Qatar Airways for its comfortable seating, high-quality meals, and exceptional in-flight entertainment.

Turkish Airlines

Flying through Istanbul with Turkish Airlines can be a cost-effective option. The airline serves several U.S. airports and offers competitive fares to Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Turkish Airlines is also known for generous baggage policies and a strong reputation for customer service.

Emirates

Emirates operates from multiple U.S. gateways, with a layover in Dubai before connecting to India. The airline is famous for its luxurious service, spacious seating, and top-notch in-flight entertainment. For many travelers, Dubai’s efficient airport makes the connection smooth and hassle-free.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways offers connections via Abu Dhabi to a variety of Indian cities. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort, attentive service, and flexible routing. Abu Dhabi is also a convenient transit point for those who want a shorter total travel time.

United Airlines

United Airlines offers direct flights to India, with routes from Newark to Delhi and Mumbai, and from San Francisco to Delhi. Nonstop service can save hours of travel time and remove the need for a layover—ideal for travelers looking for the fastest, most convenient option.

Flights to India – Airline Comparison

Here’s a quick look at some of the best airlines flying to India from North America. The table shows which airlines have direct flights, which offer stopovers, and what each one is best known for.

Airline Direct Flights Stopover Option Best For
Air India ✔ — Nonstop routes for quicker journeys
Qatar Airways — ✔ (via Doha) Top-tier service and wide Indian network
Turkish Airlines — ✔ (via Istanbul) Affordable fares and generous baggage
Emirates — ✔ (via Dubai) Premium comfort and inflight experience
Etihad Airways — ✔ (via Abu Dhabi) Flexible routing with friendly service
United Airlines ✔ — Reliable nonstop options from key U.S. hubs

This chart makes it easier to compare your choices. If you want a nonstop flight, Air India and United are great picks. If you’d like a stopover with premium service, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, or Etihad are strong options.

Cheapest Routes from the USA to India

When searching for affordable flights, consider starting from U.S. cities with high competition among airlines. More competition often means better fares.

Some of the most budget-friendly routes to India include:

  • New York (JFK/EWR) → Delhi (DEL) – Nonstop or one-stop via the Middle East or Europe
  • Chicago (ORD) → Mumbai (BOM) – Often cheaper with one-stop connections
  • San Francisco (SFO) → Delhi (DEL) – Competitive fares with Middle Eastern carriers
  • Washington D.C. (IAD) → Hyderabad (HYD) – Great options with one-stop via Doha or Dubai
  • Los Angeles (LAX) → Kochi (COK) – Lower prices with longer stopovers

Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Flights to India

  1. Book Early – Prices typically rise closer to departure, especially for peak travel times like December and summer holidays.
  2. Be Flexible with Dates – Departing midweek can often save hundreds of dollars compared to weekend departures.
  3. Consider Alternate Airports – If you live near multiple airports, compare fares from each.
  4. Work with a Travel Agent – Live agents can access special fares not always visible online, especially for complex itineraries or peak seasons.

Read more on why you should use an ASAP Tickets agent to book your flights to India.

To celebrate Diwali, you want to book your flights to India early

When Is the Best Time to Visit India?

India’s diverse climate means the best time to visit depends on where you’re headed and what you plan to do. Generally, the most comfortable weather across much of the country is from October to March, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower. This is an ideal time for sightseeing in Rajasthan, exploring Delhi and Agra, or enjoying the beaches of Goa and Kerala.

However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher fares—especially around Diwali, Christmas, and New Year. To save on flights during these months, book well in advance and consider flying midweek for better deals.

From April to June, many regions experience hot weather, but this can be a good time for mountain destinations like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where cooler temperatures prevail. These months often offer more affordable airfares, especially if you can handle the heat in lower-lying areas.

The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains to most of the country, but it’s also when you’ll find lower hotel rates and flight prices. Kerala’s backwaters and hill stations are especially lush during this time, and the rains can make for a unique, less crowded travel experience.

Tip: If you’re visiting for a specific festival—like Holi in March or Diwali in October/November—book your flights as early as possible. Demand spikes during these celebrations, and last-minute prices can be steep.

Final Thoughts

India is a destination that offers something for every traveler — from vibrant cities and historical landmarks to beautiful landscapes and diverse cuisine. Whether you’re flying with Air India for a nonstop route, enjoying Qatar Airways’ award-winning service, or finding a great deal with Turkish Airlines, there are plenty of excellent options to get you there.

Ready to plan your trip? Call ASAP Tickets at 844-300-7983 to find the best deals on flights to India and start your journey today!

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