When booking flight tickets to India, the choice between United Airlines and Air India comes down to priorities. Both carriers connect the USA and India. Their routes, cabins, and recent operations are different. This United Airlines vs Air India comparative guide will come handy if you are confused between choosing amongst these two airlines. 

United vs Air India Nonstop Routes  

At present, United Airlines direct flights to India operate only between Newark and Delhi. Other United flight services to India, including the SFO to DEL connection remain suspended. That leaves Newark to Delhi as its sole active connection to India for now.

Air India runs multiple nonstop services from major US cities to India. You can find direct flights from New York, Newark, Chicago and San Francisco to cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. Notably, Air India flights between Washington and Delhi are also suspended from October 1st, 2025. Air India leads on nonstop network and on direct connectivity.

United vs Air India Fleet 

United commonly uses the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Newark to Delhi route. The Dreamliner offers improved cabin pressure and humidity. It is a comfortable long haul aircraft.

Air India has invested in new aircraft, including Airbus A350s and refreshed Boeing 777s. The cabins feature modern seats, updated entertainment systems and better cabin lighting. On newer Air India aircraft, amenities and interiors feel modern and fresh.

United Airlines Economy vs Air India Economy 

United’s economy cabin is consistent and reliable. Seat pitch is typical for a full service carrier. United Airlines passengers get complimentary meals, and basic in flight entertainment.

Air India economy class has seen upgrades. Newer seat cushions and improved recline make long flights more comfortable. Meal service caters to Indian tastes, which many travelers prefer on this sector.

United Airlines Premium Economy vs Air India Premium Economy

United Airlines offers its United Premium Plus cabin on select long-haul routes. The seats are wider, the legroom is generous, and the meals are served on real tableware with complimentary drinks. You can contact Indian Eagle customer service to know if Premium Economy is available on United Airlines flights to India. 

Air India Premium Economy, available on its new Airbus A350 aircraft, focuses on comfort and affordability. Travelers enjoy cushioned seats with better recline, upgraded meals, and large entertainment screens. While United’s product feels closer to Business Class, Air India’s version offers a refreshed experience for those flying long hours on USA to India flights.

United MileagePlus vs Air India Maharaja Club 

United’s MileagePlus program is a strong draw. It offers broad partner redemption options and lounge access across the world. For many US-based travelers the alliance benefits add solid value.

Air India is part of Star Alliance and has merged its Flying Returns and Vistara’s Club Vistra program into “Maharaja Club”. The network benefits are growing. Frequent flyers who prefer Star Alliance connections will find value. 

United Airlines vs Air India Best Airfare 

Air India is often seen as the more economical choice in the United vs Air India debate. Travelers can find an Eagle Deal of around $654 for an Economy Class nonstop flight from Newark (EWR) to Delhi (DEL) on January 5, 2026, at IndianEagle.com.

On the same route and date, United Airlines, operating in partnership with Air India, offers a one-stop flight via Chicago (ORD) priced at approximately $739. If you value a nonstop journey and lower fare, Air India flights fit the bill. But if you prefer enhanced inflight services and don’t mind a one-stop connection, United makes for a compelling alternative.

So which airline is better when booking flight tickets to India? If you want more nonstop routes, lower starting fares and newer aircraft, Air India is a strong pick. If you value consistent frequent flyer benefits, alliance perks and lounge access, United is a reliable choice, though at present it only serves Newark to Delhi nonstop.

Your ideal airline depends on what matters most: nonstop convenience and modern cabins, or alliance benefits and wider connectivity. Compare both carriers based on your travel needs and choose what fits you best.

United Airlines vs Air India, which one do you prefer when booking flight tickets to India? Would you like us to create a comparative guide for any other airlines? Comment below and let us know. 

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