Air India’s award-winning Cutting Chai is bringing the comfort and nostalgia of one of India’s most-loved traditions to the skies. Served in First and Business Class on international flights, the specially crafted masala chai blends authentic Indian flavours with premium hospitality, offering travellers a warm taste of home wherever they fly.

Some experiences are uniquely Indian such as pausing for a steaming glass of cutting chai during monsoon. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street corner or during a quick break between meetings, or while catching up with friends, cutting chai is more than just a beverage for most Indians. It is a ritual, a moment of connection, and a comforting reminder of home.

Now, Air India is bringing that cherished experience to the skies.

Bringing India’s favourite chai to international travellers

As part of its commitment to elevating the onboard experience with authentic Indian touches, Air India has been serving Cutting Chai – Masala Flavour in First and Business Class on international flights. The new offering reflects the airline’s vision of blending world-class hospitality with distinctive Indian flavours, ensuring guests can enjoy a familiar taste of India wherever their journey takes them.

Developed in collaboration with Tata Consumer Products Ltd. (TCPL), the masala chai has been specially crafted for Air India, drawing inspiration from the beloved street-style cutting chai that has long been woven into India’s social fabric. Rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, the beverage delivers warm notes of tea and spices, creating a flavour profile that resonates deeply with Indian palates while introducing international travellers to an iconic aspect of the Indian culture.

An onboard experience inspired by nostalgia

What makes the experience particularly memorable is its presentation. Staying true to its roots, the chai is served in a compact, single-serve portion, reminiscent of the classic cutting chai format enjoyed across India. Freshly prepared onboard, it transforms a routine beverage service into a moment of pause and comfort, inviting guests to savour a small but meaningful piece of India above the clouds.

For many travellers, that familiar aroma instantly evokes memories of bustling neighbourhood tea stalls, conversations with friends and simple everyday moments that feel uniquely comforting.

From street-side tradition to award-winning innovation

The idea may seem simple, but its impact has been significant. Air India’s Cutting Chai recently earned the prestigious Best Onboard Beverage (Hot) award from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), recognising the airline’s innovative approach to enhancing the passenger experience through authentic and thoughtfully curated offerings.

The recognition highlights how small details can leave a lasting impression and demonstrates the growing appeal of experiences that celebrate local culture while delivering premium service.

Showcasing Indian hospitality at 35,000 feet

For Indian travellers, Cutting Chai often sparks a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. For international guests, it offers an introduction to a cherished Indian ritual that goes far beyond tea itself.The beverage serves as a small but meaningful expression of India’s warmth, hospitality and culture, helping travellers connect with the country through one of its most beloved traditions.

As Air India continues its transformation journey, every aspect of the guest experience is being carefully reimagined, from cabin interiors and service design to food and beverage offerings that showcase the best of India. The introduction of Cutting Chai is another example of this approach, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to creating journeys that are not only comfortable and premium, but also distinctly Indian.

Because sometimes, the most memorable part of a journey is not a grand gesture. It’s a familiar cup of chai that makes the world feel a little closer to home.