Air India EWR To BOM: A Traveler's Review

Hey travel buddies! So, you're thinking about hopping on an Air India flight from Newark (EWR) all the way to Mumbai (BOM)? Awesome! This route is a pretty popular one for folks heading back home or visiting family and friends in India. I recently flew this route and wanted to give you the lowdown, the real tea, on what you can expect. We'll cover everything from the pre-flight experience to the in-flight amenities and, of course, the landing. So, grab a chai, settle in, and let's dive into this Air India EWR to BOM review!

The Pre-Flight Experience at EWR

Alright guys, let's talk about kicking off your journey. Your Air India EWR to BOM adventure starts at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Now, EWR can be a bit of a beast, as many of you seasoned travelers know. It's a massive airport with a lot of terminals and a fair share of hustle and bustle. For international flights, especially with a carrier like Air India, it's always a good idea to get there early. I'm talking at least three hours before your scheduled departure. This gives you ample time to navigate check-in, drop off your luggage, and get through security without feeling like you're in a marathon. The Air India check-in counters are usually located in Terminal B. The process itself can vary. Sometimes it's smooth sailing, and other times there might be a bit of a queue. My tip? Have all your documents ready – passport, visa (if applicable), and booking confirmation. This speeds things up considerably. Once you're checked in, you'll head towards security. EWR's security can also be a bit of a lottery. It depends on the time of day and the sheer volume of travelers. Be prepared for potentially long lines. However, if you're flying in business or first class, or if you have certain loyalty program status, you might have access to priority lines, which can be a lifesaver.

After clearing security, you'll find yourself in the international departures area. This part of Terminal B has the usual suspects: duty-free shops, a decent selection of eateries, and some lounges. Air India has its own lounge, or you might have access to a partner lounge depending on your ticket class or credit card perks. I popped into the lounge for a bit before boarding. It was okay – not the most luxurious I've ever been to, but it offered a quiet escape from the terminal chaos, some decent snacks, and Wi-Fi. It's a good place to freshen up, charge your devices, and grab a bite before a long haul. Boarding for the Air India EWR to BOM flight usually begins about an hour to 45 minutes before departure. They typically board by zones, so listen carefully for your group to be called to avoid unnecessary waiting at the gate. The overall pre-flight experience at EWR for Air India flights is standard for a major international airport. It requires patience and good planning, but once you're through, you're on your way to Mumbai!

In-Flight Experience: Economy Class

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty, guys – the actual flight experience in Economy Class on Air India from EWR to BOM. This is where the bulk of passengers will be, and it's important to set realistic expectations. The aircraft on this route are typically Boeing 777s or 787 Dreamliners, which are generally quite comfortable for long-haul travel. The seat pitch (the distance between your seat and the one in front) in economy is usually around 31-32 inches, which is fairly standard. It's not going to feel super spacious, but it's manageable for the ~16-18 hour flight. Seat width is also standard, around 17-18 inches. My advice? If you can, try to snag an aisle seat. This gives you a bit more freedom to stretch your legs and get up without disturbing your neighbors, which is a huge plus on such a long journey. Recline is limited but present, enough to get a little bit of rest. I always bring a travel pillow and a blanket (though Air India does provide a thin blanket and a pillow) to make my seat feel more like a cozy nest.

When it comes to in-flight entertainment (IFE), Air India has been stepping up its game. You'll typically find a personal touchscreen in front of you. The selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games is usually quite extensive, with a mix of Hollywood blockbusters, Bollywood hits, and international content. I found plenty to keep me occupied, from new releases to classic Indian films. The headphones provided are usually basic, so if you're particular about sound quality, bring your own noise-canceling ones. Wi-Fi is usually available for purchase on Air India flights, but be prepared – it can be quite expensive, and the connection might be spotty at times. For such a long flight, I usually opt out of paying for Wi-Fi and focus on the IFE.

Now, let's talk food and drinks. This is often a big part of the long-haul experience, right? Air India serves two main meals during the flight, plus snacks. Typically, there's a dinner service shortly after takeoff and breakfast before landing. For the main meals, you'll usually have a choice between an Indian vegetarian or non-vegetarian option, and sometimes a Western option. The quality can be hit or miss, but generally, the Indian meals are pretty decent. I found the dal and rice to be comforting, and the chicken curry was flavorful. They also offer a selection of beverages, including soft drinks, juices, tea, and coffee. Alcohol is usually complimentary in economy on international flights, which is always a bonus! They serve beer, wine, and a few basic spirits. Keep hydrated – the cabin air is notoriously dry, so drink plenty of water. The service from the cabin crew was generally polite and efficient. They do their best to cater to a full cabin, and while they might not be overly chatty, they are professional and responsive to requests. Overall, the economy class experience on the Air India EWR to BOM route is solid for the price. It's a long flight, so comfort and entertainment are key, and Air India generally delivers on these fronts.