The Delhi to Bangalore flight route is one of India's most essential domestic routes, connecting two of the country's key cities in terms of business, culture, and technology. Both cities serve as major economic hubs, attracting thousands of business professionals, tech workers, tourists, and students every day. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of all the relevant information you need to know when flying from Delhi to Bangalore, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience.
Overview of the Delhi-Bangalore Air Route
- Flight Distance: The aerial distance between Delhi and Bangalore is approximately 1,740 kilometers (1,082 miles).
- Average Flight Time: The duration of a non-stop flight is around 2 hours and 30 minutes, but it can stretch up to 3 hours depending on weather conditions and the airline.
- Popular Airlines: The route is serviced by all major domestic airlines, including IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, Go First, and SpiceJet.
- Direct vs. Connecting Flights: Direct flights dominate the route due to high demand. Connecting flights are rare and usually involve layovers in cities like Mumbai or Hyderabad, extending travel time to 4-5 hours.
Key Airlines and Services on Delhi to Bangalore Flights
1. IndiGo
IndiGo is India’s largest and most popular low-cost airline, operating the maximum number of flights between Delhi and Bangalore. It’s known for:
- On-Time Performance: IndiGo consistently ranks high for punctuality.
- Economy Travel: With a no-frills approach, IndiGo is ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- In-flight Services: Although meals are not complimentary, you can pre-book snacks and drinks.
2. Air India
As the national carrier, Air India offers both economy and business class options on its Delhi-Bangalore flights. Features include:
- Complimentary Meals: Air India provides meals for all passengers, regardless of class.
- Business Class Comfort: The airline offers spacious seating, priority check-in, and lounge access for business class travelers.
3. Vistara
Vistara, a premium airline, offers three classes of service: economy, premium economy, and business class. Highlights include:
- In-flight Entertainment: Vistara offers onboard entertainment systems on most flights.
- Meals: Complimentary meals and beverages are provided.
- Premium Economy: This service is a hybrid between economy and business class, offering additional legroom and better seating.
4. SpiceJet
A low-cost airline, SpiceJet offers competitive fares and decent onboard services. They have multiple daily flights and offer:
- Snack Options: Passengers can pre-order meals or purchase snacks onboard.
- Frequent Flyer Programs: SpiceJet also offers a frequent flyer program for regular passengers.
Ticket Prices and Factors Affecting Fares
Ticket prices for Delhi to Bangalore flights fluctuate based on several factors such as seasonality, booking time, and airline choice. Below are the price ranges for different travel types:
- Economy Class: ₹2,500 to ₹10,000 for one-way tickets, depending on how early the ticket is booked and the time of year.
- Premium Economy: ₹10,000 to ₹20,000. Available with airlines like Vistara, this class offers better comfort and in-flight services.
- Business Class: ₹15,000 to ₹40,000, with options like priority check-in, lounge access, gourmet meals, and spacious seating.
Factors Affecting Fares:
- Booking Time: Last-minute bookings can be significantly more expensive than tickets booked 3-4 weeks in advance.
- Festivals and Holidays: During Diwali, Christmas, or summer vacations, fares can surge by up to 50%.
- Day of Travel: Midweek flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be cheaper compared to weekend flights.
- Early Morning Flights: Early morning and late-night flights are often cheaper due to lower demand.
Baggage Policies
Each airline has slightly different baggage policies, particularly in terms of checked-in luggage and cabin baggage.
- IndiGo: Allows 7 kg cabin baggage and 15 kg of checked baggage for domestic flights.
- Air India: Offers more generous baggage limits with 25 kg of checked baggage for economy class passengers.
- Vistara: Offers 15 kg checked baggage for economy and 23 kg for premium economy passengers.
- SpiceJet: Similar to IndiGo, allows 7 kg cabin baggage and 15 kg of checked baggage.
For excess baggage, airlines generally charge between ₹250 to ₹500 per extra kg. It is cheaper to purchase extra baggage allowance online at the time of booking rather than paying for it at the airport.
Airport Information
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) - Delhi
Delhi's IGI Airport (DEL) is India's busiest airport and one of the most well-equipped in the country.
- Terminal 3 (T3) handles most of the domestic flights, including those to Bangalore.
- Facilities: The airport offers free Wi-Fi, numerous lounges (accessible with priority passes or memberships), and plenty of dining and shopping options. T3 also features 24-hour counters for currency exchange and ATMs.
- Transport to/from Delhi Airport: The airport is well connected to the city via taxis, metro, and buses. The Delhi Metro Airport Express Line offers fast travel to the city center.
Kempegowda International Airport - Bangalore
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is the main airport serving Bangalore and is located about 40 km from the city center.
- Facilities: The airport is modern, with multiple lounges, shopping areas, duty-free outlets, and restaurants. Free Wi-Fi is available for up to 45 minutes.
- Transport from Bangalore Airport: Options include taxis, buses, and private car services. The BMTC airport shuttle (Vayu Vajra) operates around the clock and connects the airport to various parts of the city.
Ground Transport from Bangalore Airport
Bangalore's airport is located outside the main city, so it’s essential to plan your ground transport upon arrival:
- Taxis: Prepaid taxi services are available at the airport, along with app-based options like Uber and Ola. The fare for a ride to the city center typically ranges between ₹800 to ₹1,500 depending on the distance.
- Airport Shuttle: The BMTC Vayu Vajra buses are an economical option, with fares starting at ₹200. The buses run 24/7 and connect key areas like Koramangala, Whitefield, and Electronic City.
- Car Rentals: If you prefer to drive, several car rental services operate from the airport. Renting a car is especially convenient if you plan to explore Bangalore or its surroundings during your stay.
Time-Saving Tips for Frequent Flyers
- Online Check-In: Most airlines allow online check-in 24 to 48 hours before departure. This not only saves time at the airport but also helps you choose better seats.
- Priority Boarding: If you're a frequent traveler or prefer to avoid long queues, some airlines offer priority boarding services. You can opt for this service while booking or at the airport.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you're flying frequently. It covers flight cancellations, delays, and baggage loss, offering peace of mind.
- Travel Light: If possible, try to stick to cabin baggage. This will save you time waiting for checked-in luggage upon arrival, especially at busy airports like Delhi or Bangalore.
Best Time to Fly from Delhi to Bangalore
While you can travel between Delhi and Bangalore year-round, the following considerations may help you plan your trip more efficiently:
- Weather: Bangalore has a moderate climate year-round, making it a great destination in any season. Delhi experiences extreme temperatures, with winters (October to February) being the most pleasant time to fly.
- Festive Season: If you plan to travel during major festivals like Diwali, it’s best to book your tickets months in advance to avoid paying high prices.
Sustainable Travel Tips for the Delhi-Bangalore Route
With the rising concern for the environment, many travelers are looking to make their journeys more sustainable. Here are some tips for eco-friendly flying:
- Carbon Offset Programs: Some airlines allow you to offset your carbon emissions by investing in environmental projects.
- Pack Light: The heavier the plane, the more fuel it burns. Packing lighter reduces the aircraft's weight, leading to lower emissions.
- Digital Boarding Passes: Opt for digital boarding passes instead of printing paper ones, reducing paper waste.
Conclusion
The Delhi to Bangalore flight route offers a convenient, fast, and flexible way to travel between two of India's most important cities. With numerous airlines, a wide variety of flight options, and competitive ticket prices, air travel between Delhi and Bangalore has become increasingly accessible. Whether you’re a business traveler looking for a quick turnaround or a leisure traveler exploring two iconic cities, there’s a flight option that suits your schedule, budget, and preferences.