A taste of nostalgia at 35,000 feet with Air India’s award winning cutting chai
Air India has turned a simple cup of chai into a signature inflight experience. Their award-winning Cutting Chai is now served in First and Business Class on international routes, blending the warmth of India’s street-style masala chai with premium hospitality.
Nostalgia at altitude:
The chai is presented in a compact, single-serve format, just like the traditional “cutting chai” enjoyed at roadside stalls across India.
Crafted collaboration:
Developed with Tata Consumer Products Ltd., the recipe balances rich tea and aromatic spices to capture the authentic flavour.
Cultural connection:
For Indian travellers, it sparks memories of home; for international guests, it’s an introduction to a cherished ritual.
Recognition:
The beverage won the Best Onboard Beverage (Hot) award from APEX, underscoring how small cultural touches can elevate passenger experience.
Transformation journey:
This is part of Air India’s broader effort to reimagine its service, blending world-class standards with distinctly Indian hospitality.
It’s a clever move: sometimes the most memorable part of a journey isn’t the grand gestures, but a familiar cup of chai that makes the world feel closer to home.
