India's booming economy, and the deregulation of the aviation industry, has brought about a huge increase in the number of domestic airlines in India in recent years. Passengers can now choose from one government owned full service airline, three privately owned full service airlines, and five privately owned low cost carriers.



To help you make the right decision when flying, here's an overview of what you can expect from each of India's domestic airlines.

Indian Airlines is India's government owned, full service domestic airline, based in Mumbai. The airline was merged with Air India, the government owned international airline, in 2007 but still retains its name. Its market share has dropped significantly, to around 14%, in recent years.

As is to be expected with a state-run airline, Indian Airlines has its share of inefficiencies. Flights are often delayed, flight attendants and in-flight service leave a lot to be desired, and the airline has been involved in as many as 12 fatal accidents in its history. On the positive side, it has well planned routes and flight schedules, flies to most destinations in India, and is surprisingly reliable when it comes to baggage handling.