Long-haul travel from India to USA, and that too with an international layover, is overwhelming for first-time travelers. The very thought of navigating big airports, sitting buckled up for hours, transit in a third country, stepping into a different time zone…evokes fears and anxiety to the extent of pressing the panic button. On top of that, language barriers intensify the fear of flying alone, especially in non-English-speaking elderly travelers from India.

The above sums up Ramana Jalluri’s Reddit post wherein he poured out his apprehensions about his sexagenarian mother’s first international trip to the US: “Amma in her 60s would be flying to USA via London all alone for the first time. She can’t speak Hindi or English other than Telugu. How would she navigate the bustling terminal during her transit at London Heathrow? She may miss the connecting flight as she won’t be able to understand the wayfinding signage or announcements in English. What if anything goes wrong…”

His post resonated with many Indians in USA, among the Reddit users, who have had the same feeling about their elderly parents’ first solo flight. Contrary to Ramana’s anxiety, his mother had a comfortable journey, a safe flight, a pleasant experience – she flew from Hyderabad to Dallas, Texas smoothly. Before booking her flight tickets to Dallas, he tried to find a fellow traveler having the same itinerary as hers. He even reached out to online communities and groups, but his efforts bore no fruit.

“While googling for special airport service for senior citizens, Ramana Jalluri came across Travel Beats, Indian Eagle’s in-house travel magazine for Indian Diaspora. Our article on British Airways’ in-person airport assistance in Indian languages caught his notice. Available for free, the newly introduced service aims to help non-Hindi or non-English-speaking Indians with airport procedures from departure to boarding to transit. On knowing this, he heaved a sigh of relief, as it mitigated his worries to a great extent,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor of Travel Beats.

He went on to purchase British Airways flight tickets from IndianEagle.com for his mother’s round trip between India and USA. Once the tickets were confirmed, he visited the airline website, booked in-person airport assistance for his mother at RGI HYD Airport and selected Telugu as her only medium of communication. British Airways’ meet and greet service is available in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Punjabi, and at five major airports: New Delhi IGI, Mumbai CSMI, Hyderabad RGI, Bengaluru Kempegowda, and Chennai MAA.

He further wrote on Reddit, “British Airways’ in-person airport assistance service is a welcome relief. The moment Amma arrived at Hyderabad Airport, she was greeted by an assistant who spoke fluent Telugu. At every step of her journey from Hyderabad to London Heathrow where she had a connecting flight to Dallas with American Airlines, she had someone by her side to assist her. I was mostly worried about her transit at Heathrow; however, she had hassle-free connection to American Airlines.”

“Now she’s here with me, smiling, glowing, more confident than ever. And I’m just… proud. So proud. We kids often forget that it’s our mothers who brought us into this world and had far tougher journeys than a few hours in the air. They raised us without Google Maps, mobile apps, social media, and yet, when they travel alone, we panic. Sometimes we worry too much, forgetting that the strength they gave us has always been their own,” Ramana Jalluri concluded.

The post “This is How Maa Traveled Alone from India to USA First Time,” Shares a Green Card Holder appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Even if you’re not traveling, you can see off your friends and family beyond airport security in the United States? Yes, some major US airports, including Seattle Tacoma International Airport, have visitor pass programs for non-ticketed guests to access secured areas which are usually reserved for travelers with international flight tickets. With a SEA Visitor Pass, you can enter the Seattle-Tacoma Airport terminal to see off the family at a boarding gate, indulge in airport shopping, or hang out in the international terminal.

Seattle Airport’s post-security visitor program welcomes non-flyers to a world normally hidden behind security checkpoints. The first airport to have launched the program in 2018 in the West Coast, Seattle-Tacoma is followed by Detroit, Pittsburgh, New Orleans, and Orlando, Florida. Up to 300 SEA Visitor passes are available daily on a first-come, first-served basis for low-risk individuals without a boarding pass. And, the best thing is that you can apply for it online.

PC: PortofSeattle.org

How to apply for SEA Visitor Pass

Applying for one through the SeaTac Airport website is just like a piece of cake. You can start the application process within seven days prior to your family or elderly parents’ flights from Seattle to India or on the day of your planned visit. You need to provide a valid email ID, as approval comes by email. The application page shows the remaining number of passes on any given day, as it is limited to 300 visitors a day. If you are not able to select a date on the application form, it means the passes are booked for that particular date. The Transportation Security Administration may approve or reject the application.

Do I need a valid ID proof along with SEA Visitor Pass?

Yes, you must carry a valid TSA-approved photo ID along with a digital or photocopy of the SEA Airport visitor pass to go through the TSA Checkpoint 4. It is a designated lane for all Seattle visitor pass holders. Just like incorrect or misspelt names on flight tickets, any name mismatch between your ID proof and the visitor pass will result in denial of entry at Seattle-Tacoma Airport. Besides, you are required to scan the QR code (received in the confirmation email) for your entry through the TSA Checkpoint 4.

What are the permitted hours for SEA Visitor Pass holders? 

Entry of non-travelers, under the SEA-TAC visitor program, is permitted from 5 a.m. through 10 p.m. You must leave the airport before or by 10 p.m. If you exit the secure area for some reason, you need to go through the TSA screening again for re-entry. Non-ticketed individuals’ entry to Seattle International Airport is subject to the same security protocols that apply to travelers boarding cheap flights from Seattle to India or any other destination. The TSA rules must be followed, including restrictions on dangerous items.

Subscribe to Travel Beats, a leading portal for travel news, tips, and guides. Also, explore Indian Eagle deals for flights on any routes between USA and India. Grab unbeatable fare deals from airline partners of Indian Eagle, the most trusted air-ticketing company in USA for both Indians and Americans.

FAQs on SEA Visitor Pass Program 

Do I need a Real ID to enter Seattle Airport as a visitor?  

The airport website states clearly, “A Real ID is not required unless you are flying commercially.” A government-issued photo ID is enough. Your name on the visitor pass should match with the ID.

Can I use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR program with my visitor pass for expedited screening?

Expedited screening is not available for SEA Airport visitor pass holders. Precisely, you cannot use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to avoid security wait times as a non-ticketed visitor to the airport.

How to know if my Seattle Airport Visitor Pass application is rejected?

All airport visitor visa applications are subject to TSA approvals. If your application is rejected, you will receive email notification from TSA stating that you are not eligible for the SEA Visitor Visa program.

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Reportedly, American tech companies are advising the US visa holders, among their employees, to avoid international trips amid the heightened scrutiny at US airports for retuning travelers. However, smooth re-entry to the United States requires both immigrants and non-immigrants to have certain preparedness, like carrying essential documents while traveling abroad. If you have booked flight tickets to India, it is high time to consider the below list of documents. Travel to India, spend time with family, have fun, enjoy your vacation…without worrying about your return to the second home – America.

PC: This AI-generated image is for illustration purpose only

Passport with, at least, 6-month Validity 

Your Indian passport is more than just a travel ID; it’s your primary identity proof in the US. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of return to the US. Otherwise, CBP officers may refuse your entry into the United States. Not only at a port of entry in the US, but also at a port of departure in India, the less-than-6-month validity of your passport can result in boarding denial to you. Also, if your US visa is stamped on an old passport, don’t forget to carry both the old and the new one.

Employment Documents for H1B and L-1 Visa Holders

For H1B visa and L1 visa holders, carrying the most recent Form I-797 is critical to their hassle-free return to USA after an international trip. This document is the official proof of your legal employment status in the US. It includes important details like your employer’s name, job position, and validity period- details that CBP officers may verify during re-entry. Along with the I-797, you should also carry a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) and Form I-129 to prove your employment authorization in the US.

Form I-94: Your US Arrival and Departure Record

Form I-94 is a document that tracks your arrival in, departure from, and re-entry to the US, and it records the period of your legal stay in the US. This record is used by CBP officers to verify your immigration status. Before taking flights to India, download and print your latest I-94 from the official CBP website. Even if you’re a Green Card holder, CBP officers may ask for I-94 Form during your re-entry to verify your legal status. Keeping this one-page document handy is the wise to evade additional questioning on arrival from a trip to India and ensure safe re-entry into the US.

Documents for Green Card Holders and Applicants

Among the documents critical to Green Card holders’ smooth re-entry to USA is their physical Green Card. So, do always carry your physical Green Card, not just a copy or photo. If you are taking flights to USA from India after more than 6 months of stay in India or anywhere else outside the US, be prepared for a routine interrogation at the port of entry in the US. If you return to the US after 12 months, you must have a valid re-entry permit, or your Green Card could be considered abandoned.

For those in the process of getting a Green Card, especially Indian professionals transitioning from H-1B, Advance Parole is a must before leaving the US. If you travel abroad without it while your adjustment of status is pending, your application could be canceled automatically. Whether you already have permanent residency or are in the middle of the process, carrying the right documents is key to protecting your status.

Documents that Dependent Visa holders must carry

For H-4, L-2, or other dependent visa holders, it’s essential to carry marriage or birth certificates (especially if they were issued in India). Make sure they’re translated into English if needed. Also keep a copy of the primary visa holder’s key documents, like their visa stamp and I-797 approval. If you’ve been issued an EAD (work permit), carry that too, even if you’re not currently employed. During your re-entry to USA, these supporting documents will help establish your relationship with the primary visa holder and confirm your legal status in the US.

Documents that Students (F-1) must carry

If you’re studying in the US on an F-1 visa, your Form I-20 is as important as your passport. Make sure it’s signed by your Designated School Official (DSO) within the last 6 months for travel authorization. Also carry your student ID card, SEVIS fee receipt, and some proof that you’re still actively enrolled, like your latest transcripts or enrolment letter.

Travel Beats is a leading international travel news portal by Indian Eagle, the most trusted air-ticketing agency in America. Grab Indian Eagle deals for your summer travel to India with the best airlines from USA, and subscribe to our newsletter for timely updates that may impact your international trips.

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The days of claiming your checked bags from an international flight and rechecking in the same for a connecting domestic flight in the US are numbered. Isn’t it good for family travelers with kids and unaccompanied elderly travelers in particular? The comfort of traveling on international nonstop flights to USA fades into the hassles of retrieving checked baggage only to be rechecked in for domestic connection at the port of entry. Walking to the baggage claim area, waiting for your bags at the assigned carousel, dragging the bags to recheck in only after rescreening – it’s quite overwhelming at major US airports.

Not anymore! American Airlines became the world’s first and only carrier with a breakthrough initiative eliminating the above tiring process for its inbound passengers flying into the US. American Airlines’ International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS) program streamlines international arrival and domestic connection to a great extent by enabling thorough baggage transfer from international to domestic flights for low-risk travelers.

PC: American Airlines

How AA’s International Remote Baggage Screening works

Introduced in collaboration with the US Customs and Border Protection, the baggage claim and recheck-in elimination program is currently under trial for AA passengers flying to Los Angeles International Airport from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. Successful completion of the pilot trial would roll out the program to other hub airports and destinations of American Airlines, including New Delhi in India.

If this program expands to India for American Airlines’ New Delhi to New York flights, Indians would largely benefit from the IRBS program. leveraging advanced technology, CBP officers would remotely review the X-ray images of your bags checked in at New Delhi Airport and clear the bags for direct transfer to your final destination in the US before you actually arrive at John F. Kennedy Airport. No need to collect and recheck in your checked bags if nothing suspicious is detected during a remote review and the bags are not marked for further inspection by CBP.

Also, layovers shorter than 2 hours may suffice for international to domestic connections in the US, with the baggage claim and recheck-in process being eliminated. You would simply go through immigration clearance and TSA screening with your carry-on bag before heading straight to the scheduled connecting flight. Your checked bags would meet you at the final destination in the US.

Also Read: British Airways’ new airport service in 5 Indian languages

A 2019 survey conducted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) revealed that nearly 60% of passengers cited baggage claim and recheck-in as a major pain point. Besides, the entire process of claiming, rescreening, and rechecking bags increases the risks of baggage mishandling and the likelihood of missing connecting flights, mainly during peak travel seasons. Given the hassles of international travel, American Airlines’ International Remote Baggage Screening program promises to make the arrival process utterly seamless and set a new benchmark for passenger comfort.

At an India-US aviation summit in June 2024, the US TSA administrator tabled a proposal to India for one-stop security, aiming to end post-arrival screening of international passengers flying between the two countries. The one-stop security agreement refers to the foolproof screening of passengers and their bags at departure airports or ports of travel origin, so that they have a seamless arrival experience without additional security checks in destination countries.

Travel Beats is a leading international travel news portal by Indian Eagle, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Indians in America. Grab Indian Eagle’s best deals for summer travel to India with Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air India, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, Air France-KLM, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, United Airlines, British Airways, American Airlines, and Singapore Airlines.

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Did you know nearly 20% of travelers make an error while entering their details during flight bookings? What is more shocking than this is that some airlines refuse to correct a simple one-letter mistake in passenger names on flight tickets without charging a hefty fee, thereby forcing you to buy a new ticket. Minor name corrections, such as missing of a letter from your name (Subham instead of Shubham), might seem harmless, but airlines don’t think so! This can lead to denied boarding, missed flights, monetary loss, multiple calls to the airline, and hours of stress.

Here’s a guide on how to get name corrections in international flight tickets, which airlines allow it for free or less, what airline rules are passenger name correction, what to do in case of name mismatch between airline tickets and passports…

Emirates’ policy for name spelling mistakes

Minor spelling mistakes? Passenger name correction in Emirates flight tickets to India, USA, or any other destination is possible. Emirates allows it free of charge, as long as the name correction is requested before the first leg in your itinerary. If you have legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, you can request a name update at any point during your journey by providing the necessary legal documents. However, Emirates strictly prohibits ticket transfers, meaning you cannot change the name to transfer your ticket to another person. The airline may require additional proof to process any name correction request.

Air India’s rules for passenger name corrections 

Is name correction possible on Air India flight tickets? Yes, it is but with certain restrictions. Only one correction per passenger. Corrections cannot be made within 24 hours of your scheduled departure. The correction must be for the same individual listed on the ticket, and charges may apply depending on the nature of the correction.

For international travelers with Air India tickets to India/USA, it is crucial that the name on the booking exactly matches the passport to avoid issues with airport entry or denial of boarding. If you have only one name (without a middle or last name), Air India requires you to enter ‘FNU’ in the first name field and your actual name in the last name field.

Qatar Airways’ rules for traveler name misspelling  

Qatar Airways allows one-time name correction up to three characters on a confirmed ticket. However, full name correction in Qatar Airways tickets is strictly prohibited. The airline discourages speculative bookings with the expectation of a future name change. In cases where a name change is required beyond minor corrections, passengers need to cancel their existing booking and make a new reservation.

Etihad Airways policy for fixing wrong names in tickets

Etihad allows minor name corrections, such as rearranging a surname/first name or fixing up to three characters, free of charge. However, full name changes (e.g., “Ramesh” to “Suresh”) are not allowed. If the correction is for a partially used ticket, no extra fee is charged. For group bookings or cases requiring extensive amendments, a fee of $100 (USD) applies. Additionally, long names exceeding the system’s 59-character limit can be adjusted at no extra cost, particularly for infants, by redistributing characters between adult and child names.

Lufthansa’s passenger name correction policy 

As of July 1, 2024, Lufthansa abolished flight ticket name correction fees, making approved corrections completely free. However, full name transfers to another person are never allowed.

Lufthansa follows strict name correction policies, especially for flights from India to USA, where passport details must match 100%. Minor corrections can sometimes be handled through APIS Data (SSR DOCS) if it’s clear that the ticket refers to the same person. If an error is noticed immediately after ticket issuance, passengers can either void the ticket or request a refund within the ‘grace period’ (next calendar day).

Passenger name change in Singapore Airlines tickets 

It is advised that your name on international flight tickets matches your passport while booking Singapore Airlines flights. However, minor spelling corrections are permitted for a fee of USD 50. Corrections allowed include fixing up to three characters, adjusting a salutation, correcting a married/maiden name, or adding a middle name. Complete name changes are strictly prohibited, as tickets are non-transferable. Additionally, once travel has begun, name corrections are no longer allowed.

Turkish Airlines policy for passenger name spelling mistakes

Among the best airlines to India and USA, Turkish Airlines has a strict name correction policy. Double-check your name and other traveler names in the airline tickets after making a reservation and before web check-in. Your name and its spelling must match the one on your passport. Turkish Airlines allows minor name corrections like fixing humble spelling mistakes through the Manage Booking section on their website. The passenger name correction fee may vary depending on your travel class and fare type. It is recommended you contact the airline directly or check their website. They have a dedicated page sharing tips on how to enter passenger names correctly to avoid last-minute hassles.

British Airways’ policy for name spelling correction

British Airways does not generally allow traveler name changes. However, under special circumstances, they permit minor corrections up to three characters for a fee. A request for flight ticket name correction must be made via their call center, with fees varying by region: £45/€50 for UK/EU call centers and $60 for North America. If your name has changed due to marriage or divorce, you can request a correction to match your passport by providing official documents. Full name changes or ticket transfers to another person are strictly prohibited.

Cathay Pacific 

Name corrections are quite flexible on Cathay Pacific tickets, irrespective of flight deals to India from USA and vice versa, as long as the actually ticketed traveler is the same. You can request changes like adding or removing a middle name, fixing typos, correcting title or gender, or swapping the order of first, middle, and last names. Even name changes are allowed on legal grounds like marriage and adoption, provided your date of birth remains the same and there are documents evidencing the name update.

Cathay Pacific permits the above corrections for free of charge. A request for name change is not honored if it’s a different person entirely. Also, making a name change through an agent without the airline’s approval could incur a penalty of USD 60 (or local currency equivalent), and your entire booking might be canceled without warning. In some cases, additional fees may apply, so it’s best to contact the airline if you’re unsure.

United Airlines

Since there is no much clear information about United Airlines’ policy for name corrections, we reached out to their live chat for clarity. The agent confirmed that once a ticket is issued, the passenger name on it cannot be changed, and the ticket can’t be used by anyone else. If you need to change the name, you’ll have to cancel the booking, pay a service fee, and rebook the ticket in the correct name. Some users on Reddit also shared similar experiences, saying that in the event of a major mistake, the only option is to cancel and buy a new ticket. So, it’s really important to double-check your name on United Airlines flight tickets before confirming your travel.

The post What to Do if Your Name is Wrong in International Flight Tickets? Which Airlines Allow Name Corrections? appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Remember the movie English Vinglish, the character Shashi (played by Sridevi), and her first-time travel from India to New York? She was unassertive, hesitant, and vulnerable right from airport check-in to immigration clearance to boarding. All because of language barriers. Like this character, many elderly Indians traveling solo to visit their children settled abroad feel lost in real while navigating international airports. Most of them are non-English and/or non-Hindi speakers.

PC: British Airways (customized by Indian Eagle for illustration purpose only)

But no more! British Airways became the first foreign carrier to close the language gap for Indian passengers, with its in-person guidance in 5 Indian languages – Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Punjabi. This first-of-its-kind support is part of BA’s brand new Meet and Assist service available across all five Indian airports – New Delhi IGI, Mumbai CSMI, Hyderabad RGI, Bengaluru Kempegowda, and Chennai MAA. These are the gateways of British Airways flights to and from India.

British Airways’ in-person airport support in local languages aims to help Indians communicate their needs effortlessly for less stressful travel from India to the UK and beyond. No more difficulty checking in, navigating the airport for facilities, understanding the boarding announcements, finding the pre-assigned seat on board, and transiting to connecting flights at London Heathrow for non-Hindi and/or non-English-speaking Indian travelers, particularly unaccompanied senior citizens.

Also Read: Transit Visa Guide for Indians Flying via London

Interestingly, BA’s language-based assistance extends from Indian airports to London Heathrow Airport where it makes transit connections as seamless as possible. Hence, it mitigates your worries even if your non-English-speaking elderly parents travel unaccompanied to the US via London Heathrow, one of the busiest airports in the world. The best thing? The in-person guidance in your language is the complimentary part of British Airways’ brand new Meet and Assist service.

Integral to the airline’s commitment to removing barriers and flying Indians in comfort, the local language-friendly assistance initiative is currently available at Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai airports for free, with Hyderabad to follow on 8 April 2025. This dedicated service has been rolled out following the success of trials for months in 2024.

How can you avail British Airways’ free in-person service?

After securing the best deals for British Airways flights to USA through IndianEagle.com or any other agency, you can register for BA’s in-person assistance through ‘Manage My Booking’ on the airline website. Prior to your airport check-in on the scheduled day of travel, the airline’s Meet and Assist team will greet you and address your queries/needs in your preferred Indian language (out of the abovementioned). Days of discomfort are gone for non-Hindi and non-English speakers among senior citizens, especially from South India.

Is British Airways good for senior citizens’ solo travel to USA?

Among the best airlines to India and USA, British Airways became senior citizens’ travel-friendly airline for its brand new meet and assist service in Indian languages. This may eat into the market share of nonstop Air India flights that many Indians in North America book for their parents’ travel between USA/Canada and India. No exaggeration; BA’s in-person assistance in local languages is a highly competitive edge over the Middle East carriers,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor at Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking partner of Indians in the US.

“It’s important to us that every customer can travel in safety, comfort and with dignity, and we know that there are some who need an extra helping hand throughout their journey. As part of our new Meet and Assist program, our trained colleagues will be able to act as a companion on the ground for our customers with access requirements, ensuring a smooth flying experience,” said British Airways’ Director of airports.

The post British Airways’ New In-person Service in Indian Languages Extends from Indian Airports to Transit at London appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

To err is human. But a minor oversight of the flight schedule, visa information, or the traveler’s name on the ticket results in boarding denial, disrupting international travel and incurring a whopping loss. Most recently, an Indian-origin Microsoft executive from USA was scheduled to travel to India. But he was stopped by the airline during airport check-in and denied international travel. He is a seasoned traveler having a business visa to India. Over the past 20 years, he took 563 trips mostly on business class flights, some domestic and some international.

This AI-generated image is for illustration purpose only

What spoilt his 564^th trip is an eyeopener for everyone. “How could I do this” was his expression when he realized and regretted his mistake, small yet significant. Different date formats followed in the US and India confused him about the expiry date of his business visa to India. The visa that he assumed to be valid through 02 October 2025 did actually expire on 10 February 2025. Being unmindful of the India vs US date formats on travel documents is a common oversight that ended up denying boarding to him and cancelling his travel.

Let’s break down the incident and how you can avoid making the same mistake

He was taken aback the moment he heard, “You can’t travel.” The airline staff at the check-in counter noticed the 5-year business visa to India was expired and pointed out the expiration date, which the Microsoft executive could not understand immediately. He started scouring through his travel documents to find what went wrong. All the confusion evaporated at his shocking discovery – a misunderstanding.

10/2/2025 was the visa expiration date. Being an American, he read it as October 2, 2025. Naturally, he was under the impression that the business visa to India was valid through September 2025. In fact, the visa issued by India had the expiration date in the day/month/year format – which the airline staff explained to him. The day/month/year format on documents is followed in India and some other countries. It means his visa expired on 10 February 2025.

More real-life cases of date format mix-up                

Confusion over the US vs India date formats is common to not only travelers but also the airport staff and the airline crew. In 2023, an NRI ran into trouble while traveling back to USA from India. His Green Card had an expiration date of 11/01/2023. The airline crew read this as 11 January 2023 in the day-month-year format and stopped him before security checks. Actually, the Green Card was about to expire on November 01, 2023, as per the US date format (month-day-year). A senior supervisor intervened to clarify that the NRI was eligible for international travel and entry to the US.

Subscribe to Travel Beats, a leading US-India travel news portal for Indians in America, for everything from transit visa to travel hacks, baggage allowance, connecting airport stopover guides, and upcoming flights to India. Travel Beats is a subsidiary of Indian Eagle, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of NRIs and OCI cardholders booking best flight deals to India and USA.

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Whether it is H4 visa wives or working independent women in America, there is nothing more powerful than a determined woman. And, Indian women in the United States prove it every single day thousands of miles away from their native home. Their individuality and versatility are admirable, from supporting their spouses in the ‘rate’ race to struggling for work permit (EAD), raising kids alone, and ensuring their cultural upbringing on the American soil. Any opportunity to fly back home (India) and rejuvenate themselves through reunion with near and dear ones is one of the few things they deserve.

What could be a better occasion than International Women’s Day to make your upcoming summer travel to India, solo or with family, a joyous affair? Indian Eagle – the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indians in America – has brought you a Women’s Day special discount of $25 on USA-India flight tickets. February and March is the best time for summer travel booking. The earlier you book, the lower fare you pay. On top of that, you can grab the Women’s Day discount $25 to book cheap flight tickets on IndianEagle.com.

How to grab Indian Eagle’s Women’s Day flight discount offer?

It is just a matter of few simple steps! Open IndianEagle.com, search for itineraries based on your route and travel dates, select the fare deal of your choice, fill details of travelers, apply the discount code (WOMENSDAY25), and make payment. An instant discount of $25 is available on some fare deals, whereas you may get cashback $25 within 48 hours of issuance of your flight tickets in case of some deals. The cashback will be given to you through your preferred mode of refund – ACH, Amazon Gift Voucher, or Zelle Pay.

What is the validity of Indian Eagle’s flight discount offer?

Indian Eagle’s Women’s Day 2025 offer – $25 discount on flight tickets to India – is valid through 31 March 2025. Precisely, you can book airline tickets during the offer validity period for traveling to and from India any time in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December this year.

How many times you can use the discount code?

You can get the discount only once on booking of travel for one traveler or more, but not per person/traveler in a reservation. If you are planning a holiday trip to India for two travelers, you can use the same discount code – WOMENSDAY25 – to get $25 off for both by booking their flight tickets separately and using different email IDs as well as contact numbers.

Who can avail Indian Eagle’s Women’s Day discount offer on flight tickets? 

The limited-time fare discount offer is open to all, irrespective of gender. Adult women travelers flying alone or with kids/spouses/parents/parents-in-law/other adult travelers are eligible for the offer. It is equally accessible to adult male travelers accompanying or flying with an adult woman traveler.

Please note the Terms and Conditions, including but not limited to the ones below, apply to Indian Eagle’s flight ticket discount offer for your upcoming travel between USA and India: 

• The offer is valid from 11 February through 31 March 2025.
• The discount can be availed only once while booking a new one-way/round trip on either route: USA or India or India to USA.
• The Women’s Day flight discount has no cash value.
• The offer is not valid for the already discounted itineraries and ‘Eagle Deals.’
• The offer is not applicable for a change of travel dates in the existing reservations.
• The discount cannot be combined with other coupons, offers, or Eagle Rewards.
• The discount is not available on fare difference while rescheduling your confirmed travel or revalidating open tickets.
• The offer is not valid for other services, including but not limited to, travel insurance, airport lounge booking, and paid on-ground/inflight services.

The post Indian Eagle Offer: Get Flight Discount for Family Travel to India on Air India, Emirates, Etihad, Qatar, Turkish Airline appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Planning a trip to India from USA this summer holiday? It’s not just exciting but overwhelming too. The very thought of traveling home gives immense joy; however, the number of airline options and itineraries makes the process complex for many Indians. A myriad of factors, such as budget, nonstop travel, one-stop transit, layover tours, transit visa, onboard seating, inflight facilities for kids, total travel time, connection time during a layover, etc. go into consideration while booking your travel with the best airline. Not all the airlines flying between USA and India are best. Each of them is individually best.

Air India

Air India is the only international carrier offering nonstop flights between USA and India, covering some of the busiest routes between the two countries. Since its homecoming to the TATA Group, the airline has made bold moves, such as multi-billion-dollar fleet upgrade, launch of Premium Economy seats, induction of modern aircraft like A350-900s with top-notch amenities, $400mn narrowbody aircraft retrofit, expanded lounge network, a unique loyalty program, offering inflight Wi-Fi on most routes…thereby progressively improving passenger experience.

Booking nonstop Air India flights saves you, particularly first-time travelers and senior citizens, from the hassles of international transit and layovers in a third country. In short, Air India is a great choice for US-India travel with a familiar Indian experience in the sky.

Emirates Airlines

Emirates is a leading choice for travelers who seek both comfort and luxury. With a layover in Dubai, passengers can enjoy one of the most luxurious airport experiences in transit. And, if your layover in Dubai is of 8 hours or more, you may be eligible for Emirates’ Dubai Connect package, which offers complimentary hotel stay, free meals, airport transfers, and a free transit visa depending on your nationality, India or American.

The best deals for Emirates flights tickets to India are in demand for the airline’s regionally-inspired inflight meals tailored to your destination. And, for those who want a little extra comfort without paying business class fare, Emirates Premium Economy is the perfect option. Available on A380 and A350 flights, it offers spacious 19.5-inch-wide seats with 40 inches of legroom and 8 inches of recline for superior comfort.

So, if you want to turn your long-haul travel into a luxurious and memorable experience, Emirates is one of the best airlines to fly between USA and India.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is one of the top Middle East airlines for USA-India travel via Abu Dhabi where pre-clearance of US immigration & customs lets you enter the US as a domestic passenger. Known for its advanced fleet, which offers comfort, safety and efficiency, Etihad offers cozy seating and award-winning hospitality in all travel cabins. Early this year, the airline opened a US Pre-clearance lounge at Abu Dhabi Airport for premium travelers; interestingly, eligible passengers can directly board Etihad flights to USA from the lounge.

Families flying with young children or infants can benefit from the Flying Nanny service, where trained staff help parents in keeping little ones entertained throughout the flight. Additionally, Etihad offers a complimentary Abu Dhabi stopover, allowing passengers to explore the city at no extra cost. However, a transit visa is required to step out of Abu Dhabi International Airport, depending on your passport.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has been awarded the prestigious ‘Airline of the Year’ title by Skytrax for a remarkable eight times. Among the top 10 airlines to India and USA with the highest commitment to safety, Qatar Airways offers pre-select meal facility and a fulfilling dining experience above the clouds. Check out what makes it a family-friendly airline for travelers with kids and the ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline’.

Doha City stopover for transit travelers is one of the biggest perks of booking Qatar Airways flights to India or USA with layovers exceeding 8 hours. Rather than waiting at the airport, you can turn a transit layover into a mini vacation, visit iconic landmarks in Doha City, and go on a luxury shopping spree. The best part is both US citizens and Indians are eligible for a visa waiver on arrival at Hamad International Airport, Doha.

Turkish Airlines

One of the few international carriers with a young fleet and a high safety rating, Turkish Airlines lists among Indian Eagle’s top 10 airlines to fly to India and USA. It flies to 14 major US cities and connects them to India seamlessly via Istanbul. New York, New Jersey, Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Houston, Dallas, Seattle, Detroit, Denver, and Miami are on Turkish Airlines’ USA-India network.

Like Etihad and Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines offers one of the best layover city tours between USA and India. A complimentary guided Istanbul city tour for international transit passengers is one of the perks of booking Turkish Airlines flight itineraries with a layover of 6 hours or more at no extra cost. The best thing is that Indians having a valid US visa or Green Card, are eligible for a single-entry e-visa to Turkey for Istanbul city sightseeing.

Singapore Airlines    

Among the best airlines for flights to USA from India, Singapore Airlines is known for exceptional service, world-class comfort, and reliability. The airline consistently ranks among the top carriers globally, offering a seamless travel experience with well-timed connections through Singapore Changi Airport, one of the world’s top 10 airports. Their Premium Economy class, in particular, stands out for extra legroom, soft leather upholstery, adjustable personal reading light, in-seat USB ports, and noise-canceling headphones.

Singapore Airlines takes in-flight dining to a whole new level with its “Book the Cook“ service, allowing premium class passengers to pre-select gourmet dishes curated by world-renowned chefs. Starting in April 2024, their enhanced menu offers over 200 dishes, including Indian specialties like chicken biryani and garlic-roasted prawns, ensuring a fine dining experience at 40,000 feet.

Check out this guide on free Singapore City and Changi Airport tours during a layover before booking Singapore Airlines flight tickets for USA to India travel.

Lufthansa

Among European carriers, Lufthansa is a strong contender for flights between USA and India, against the Middle East airlines. Recently, Lufthansa Group expanded codeshare agreement with Air India to fly you from USA to a total of 15 destinations in India, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Efficient connection through Frankfurt/Munich, Star Alliance membership, strong safety records, and commitment to improving inflight service standards make Lufthansa one of the best airlines to fly to India or USA via Europe.

Lufthansa’s new Allegris travel cabins with significant upgrades in Economy Class, pod-like seats in Premium Economy, in-seat temperature control in Business Class, and spacious double suites in First Class have taken the aviation world by storm. Grab Lufthansa flights deals to India or USA to travel in the Allegris cabins for a premium flying experience.

British Airways

British Airways is one of the oldest and trusted airlines in the US-India travel corridor, having built good reputation for service, safety, and reliability. You can have complimentary seat selection within 24 hours of your scheduled flight with British Airways, other than convenient connectivity to the airline’s wider network in the US. Smooth connections to USA or India via London Heathrow Airport where premium facilities are available for a comfortable layover drive demand for British Airways flight deals at Indian Eagle, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Indians in USA.

Check out London Heathrow Airport’s transit visa rules for Indians traveling to and from USA.

Virgin Atlantic

If you’re looking for a comfortable journey between USA and India, Virgin Atlantic is a fantastic choice. Known for its award-winning customer service, the airline ensures a welcoming and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Premium Economy passengers enjoy wider seats, extra legroom, and priority boarding on Virgin Atlantic flights between USA and India. If you’re flying in Economy, the spacious 31-inch seat pitch makes your journey comfortable.

Onboard, you’ll be treated to complimentary drinks along with delicious in-flight meals that come with an added dessert and hot chocolate service. Families traveling with children benefit from special kids’ meals and Virgin’s entertainment program, Vera, which includes fun activities, games, and a selection of family-friendly content. To make long-haul journeys even more comfortable, all passengers receive an amenity kit of essentials, like a toothbrush, earplugs, an eye mask, and socks.

Virgin Atlantic continues to strengthen its presence in India, offering flights from San Francisco to Delhi, New York to Mumbai, and New York to Bengaluru. It also offers excellent connectivity to New York’s JFK airport, with multiple well-timed flights for added convenience.

The post What are 10 Best Airlines to Travel to India from USA in 2025? A Complete Guide appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Earlier in 2017, Indian women’s multi-fold saris with embroidery or mirror or other material work fooled Delhi IGI Airport’s body scanners into raising alarms for nothing. Many female travelers refused to comply with the security norms since they were required to remove their mangalsutra for the pre-boarding scan. Ultimately, the American body scanners were withdrawn from Indira Gandhi International Airport.

However, Delhi IGI Airport sourced a new body scanner which is smart enough to see through multi-layered Indian attires, particularly sari with metallic work. Developed by a Russian company and a Gujarat-based manufacturer in a collaborative venture, the body scanner has been on a week-long trial at Delhi Airport and proven sensitive to Indian women’s Desi outfits.

Unlike the previous scanners, the new body scanner at Delhi IGI Airport does not beep immediately and unnecessarily when a sari-clad woman wearing jewelry goes through it. Rather, it produces an X-ray image for the screening staff to check if the woman under scan is hiding any prohibited or suspicious item.

Also Check: 10 Passenger-friendly Facilities at Delhi Airport for Seamless Travel

Usual body scanners require male travelers to remove their wallets, watches, and belts, and female fliers to remove their handbags and jewelry. The new scanners at Delhi IGI Airport do not need travelers to take off shoes, belts, watches, wallets, jewelry, phones, etc. Reportedly, the new scanner has been manufactured in harmony with Indian sentiments and standards.

What’s the most likeable about the new body scanner at Delhi Airport is that it is configured in such a way so as to produce mannequin-like images without revealing body parts, according to the Bureau for Civil Aviation Security.

To be installed at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi Airport (DEL), the full body scanner can detect explosives, metallic things and other suspicious items even through prosthetics, plaster casts, and multi-layered Indian attires. So, not only Indian women wearing sarees with metallic work but also differently-abled passengers on wheel chairs can comfortably go through the scan.

However, passengers will have to undergo physical frisking even after a full-body scan in a telephone booth-like structure. The new scanner will finally be put to use by this month end.

The post Delhi IGI Airport’s New Body Scanners are Sensitive to Indian Women Wearing Saris and Jewelry appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.