Is it cheaper to fly into Delhi or Mumbai?

Delhi (DEL) is almost always cheaper due to higher flight frequency and more airline competition.

Are last-minute business class upgrades worth it?

Rarely. It is almost always cheaper to book the fare upfront than to pay the cash upgrade fee at the airport gate.

Do I need to leave the airport for a positioning flight?

Often yes. If you book separate tickets, you will likely need to clear customs, collect bags, and re-check them for your flight to India. Allow at least 5 hours for this connection.

Booking business class flights to India for less

Use airline alliances to book partner awards with points and leverage 'positioning flights' from secondary hubs like Colombo or Muscat. Aim to book 11 months out or within 14 days of departure to find the best business class availability.

Master the 'Positioning Flight' strategy. Direct business class fares from the US or Europe to India are often overpriced. Instead, book a flight to a secondary hub like Colombo (CMB), Muscat (MCT), or Doha (DOH), then purchase a separate, cheap regional ticket to India on a carrier like Air India or Indigo.
Use ITA Matrix to track price drops. Set up a search on ITA Matrix using the 'month-long search' feature. Monitor routes from your home city to Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bangalore (BLR) simultaneously. Focus on non-peak travel months like May, September, and October.
Leverage partner award programs. Don't book through the airline you are flying. If you want to fly Qatar Airways or Emirates, check the award charts of their partners (like British Airways Avios or Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan). You can often book the exact same seat for 50-70% fewer points.
Check regional airlines for hidden value. Look at Vistara or Air India business class fares booked directly on their websites. Their 'Sale' fares are frequently cheaper than major US or European carriers, even when including a separate connecting flight.

Is it cheaper to fly into Delhi or Mumbai?: Delhi (DEL) is almost always cheaper due to higher flight frequency and more airline competition.
Are last-minute business class upgrades worth it?: Rarely. It is almost always cheaper to book the fare upfront than to pay the cash upgrade fee at the airport gate.
Do I need to leave the airport for a positioning flight?: Often yes. If you book separate tickets, you will likely need to clear customs, collect bags, and re-check them for your flight to India. Allow at least 5 hours for this connection.