I helped book a one-way premium cabin trip from South India to Chicago for one of my friend’s mother.
Cash price for a one-way first class flight
Prices typically run between $6000-7000 USD for the nonstop first class service between Delhi and Chicago, and a connection from South India adds a little extra.
Air India Premium Cabin Award Space
Air India consistently releases one business class and one first class award space T-350 days ahead and it is easy to book one each if two people are traveling (review).
LifeMiles Award Redemption
We used LifeMiles for this award redemption and it was a mixed itinerary with business (Chennai to Delhi) and first class (Delhi to Chicago) flights. My friend wanted his mom to experience the first class and he didn’t mind paying the extra miles.
Complimentary Personal Escort Service for First Class Passengers
Air India includes a complimentary personal escort service for their first class passengers and my friend’s mom was surprised to see an airport chauffeur holding up a sign with her name when she got off the Chennai to Delhi flight. She is 76 years old and was happy to use the help navigating the busy Delhi airport. The airport chauffeur helped her to the lounge and then came back to bring her to the gate.
I asked her to share some of the pictures of her flight travel experience and posted them below.
Air India First Class Boeing 777 (AI 127) Cabin
Air India’s first class cabin looks dated and in need of an upgrade, but it’s very comfortable to lie down and sit for the long flight duration.
Amenity Kit
First Class Menu
First Class Cabin Service
The customer service seems to be top notch according to her and she enjoyed the Asian vegetarian meal and various beverages.
Conclusion
Air India first class experience won’t compare to that of Middle Eastern Airlines, but it is readily available to book with points.