What Are the Best Budget Airlines from Canada to India?
The best budget airlines from Canada to India are:
- Air India: Direct routes from Toronto; competitive pricing
- Qatar Airways: Short layovers, premium economy at a bargain
- Turkish Airlines: Consistently low fares via Istanbul
- Etihad Airways: Student-friendly; generous baggage
- Saudia: Often the cheapest with longer layovers
- KLM / Lufthansa / British Airways: Affordable off-season rates
- IndiGo (via codeshare): Great for domestic India connections
Each of these airlines offers economy fares under CAD 1,200 during most seasons, especially if booked early.
Flying from Canada to India doesn’t have to break the bank. With rising airfare costs and increased demand from students, families, and frequent travelers, many budget-conscious Canadians are looking for the most affordable ways to reach India. Whether you’re flying from Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, or Calgary, there are reliable budget airline options available—if you know where to look.
In this blog, we compare the best budget airlines, analyze routes and fares, and offer money-saving tips to help you fly smarter in 2025.
How to Find the Cheapest Flights to India from Canada?
Finding budget flights takes more than luck. Try these proven methods:
- Use flexible dates on sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak.
- Book early: ideally 2–3 months in advance.
- Avoid peak seasons: December, July–August, and Indian festivals.
- Look for off-season deals: April–June, September–November.
- Compare third-party booking sites with the airline’s official website.
Major Canadian Airports Serving Flights to India
Here are Canada’s key airports with the best budget flight options to India:
- Toronto Pearson (YYZ): Offers direct and connecting flights to Delhi, Mumbai
- Vancouver (YVR): Connects via Qatar, Turkish, or KLM
- Montreal (YUL): Flights mostly via Europe or the Middle East
- Calgary (YYC): Competitive one-stop options via Frankfurt or Doha
Budget Airline Comparison Table
| Airline | Avg Fare (CAD) | Layovers | Baggage Included | Flight Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air India | $900–$1,200 | 0–1 | 1 checked bag | 14–18 hrs | Direct flights |
| Qatar Airways | $850–$1,100 | 1 | 1–2 bags | 16–17 hrs | Short layovers |
| Turkish Airlines | $800–$1,000 | 1 | 1 checked bag | 18–20 hrs | Budget + comfort |
| Etihad Airways | $850–$1,150 | 1 | 2 checked bags | 17–19 hrs | Student travelers |
| Saudia | $750–$950 | 1 | 2 checked bags | 20–22 hrs | Lowest prices |
What to Expect with Budget Airlines?
While budget fares save money, it’s important to know what you’re trading off:
- Baggage Allowance: Some budget fares offer only 1 bag. Etihad and Saudia usually offer 2.
- Meals & Entertainment: Most full-service airlines still offer meals, but low-cost flights may not.
- Layovers: Longer layovers and cheaper flights. But check if transit visas are required (especially in Saudi Arabia or UK).
- Customer Service: Budget airlines often limit live support; choose wisely if flexibility is important.
Best Airline Options by Traveler Type
Students
- Etihad Airways: Offers exclusive student discounts and extra baggage
- Lufthansa & Qatar: Frequent deals during enrollment months
Families
- Air India: Direct flights reduce transit time for families
- Qatar Airways: Good onboard service and kids’ amenities
Expats & Long-Term Travelers
- Saudia & Turkish Airlines: Low-cost one-way or round-trip tickets
- Consider combining with IndiGo for domestic connections within India
When to Book Cheap Flights from Canada to India?
Cheapest Months to Fly:
- April to June
- September to mid-November
Avoid Peak Travel:
- December–January (Holiday season)
- July–August (Summer + student rush)
- Diwali, Holi, Eid, and other Indian festivals
Best Booking Window:
- 60–90 days in advance for the best pricing
- Set fare alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner
To Summarize
Flying to India on a budget is possible with the right timing, tools, and airlines. For most Canadians, airlines like Qatar, Turkish, and Air India strike the perfect balance between price, convenience, and comfort. Remember to book early, compare across platforms, and stay flexible with dates to unlock the best deals in 2025.
However, if you are flying from Canada to India, you can book flight tickets from Toronto to Delhi easily through the Airfarebooking platform.
FAQs
Q1. What is the cheapest airline from Canada to India?
Saudia and Turkish Airlines often offer the lowest fares, starting from CAD 750, depending on the season.
Q2. Are there direct budget flights from Toronto to Delhi?
Yes, Air India operates direct flights from Toronto (YYZ) to Delhi (DEL).
Q3. Which airline gives the most baggage allowance?
Etihad and Saudia typically allow 2 checked bags (23kg each) in economy.
Q4. Can students get discounts on India flights?
Yes, Etihad, Lufthansa, and some agents in Canada offer student fares with extra baggage and flexible change rules.
Q5. Do I need a visa for layovers?
Depends on the country. Layovers in Qatar, UAE, or Turkey usually don’t need a visa if under 24 hours. UK and Saudi Arabia may require a transit visa.