New Delhi [India], January 23 (ANI): Air India Express has been adjudged the winner in the airline category at Wings India 2026 for its contribution to enhancing domestic connectivity and improving passenger experience, according to an official announcement.

The award, constituted by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and industry body FICCI, recognises exemplary efforts that contribute to the growth, modernisation and sustainability of India's aviation sector. Air India Express was selected by a distinguished jury for expanding connectivity, leveraging technology and digital platforms, driving sustainability initiatives and delivering superior services.

The award will be presented on January 28 during Wings India 2026, India's flagship aviation event, scheduled to be held in Hyderabad.

Air India Express has emerged as the fastest-growing airline in the country, operating over 500 daily flights across a network of 45 domestic and 17 international destinations spanning South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Gulf region. The airline currently operates a fleet of more than 100 aircraft, with over two-thirds comprising new-generation Boeing and Airbus planes.

In recent months, the airline has introduced upgraded cabins through linefit and retrofit programmes, featuring contoured seating, mood lighting, larger overhead bins and USB charging ports at every seat. In December, Air India Express topped the on-time performance rankings among all Indian carriers.

The airline has also focused on enhancing onboard and digital offerings, including its 'Gourmair' hot meals inspired by regional flavours and customised fare options such as India's only Lite fare for cabin-bag-only travellers.

Air India Express' domestic network is anchored by its major hubs in Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai, with nearly 80 per cent of its domestic capacity deployed on metro-to-non-metro routes. By the end of FY25, the airline operated over 1,260 weekly domestic flights across around 120 routes, carrying nearly 20 million passengers, the majority of them domestic travellers.

The expansion has accelerated in FY26, with weekly domestic flights rising to around 2,700, alongside the launch of 12 new stations in 2025. Through its codeshare partnership with Air India, the airline also enables seamless international connectivity from non-metro cities to long-haul destinations across North America and Europe.

At the previous edition of Wings India, Air India Express had won the 'Sustainability Champion' award, underlining its continued focus on responsible growth in the aviation sector. (ANI)