Because of the snow storm last weekend, UA flights BOM-EWR and DEL-EWR were cancelled for several days. So, instead of 9W MAA-BOM and UA BOM-EWR-ROC, I changed to AI MAA-DEL-ORD connected to UA to ROC. I read all of the terrible reviews of AI and was expecting the worst on the plane and in the clubs. The Chennai club (domestic side) was quite nice with free wifi and a nice buffet. AI539 MAA-DEL in Executive Class on an A319 was very nice. Comfortable seat (1F), excellent food, and friendly FA. 6 hour layover in DEL in the AI club. Nice reclining chairs, tasty snacks, courteous staff. AI127 DEL - ORD in Executive Class on a 777-300 was fine. Seat 14C. It was well-worn but functional. Not as comfortable as the best UA BF seats, but not bad. Even though I am 6'4" I was able to stretch out and sleep. The food was excellent (I chose the Indian veg options all around). The FAs were efficient, not particularly attentive but not neglectful either. IFE was limited compared to UA, but it was fine. Ample selections and it worked well.

Maybe I was impressed because they greatly exceeded my expectations, but I would definitely fly AI again.