I am trying to proactively see if something is an option for me. In short, my YYZ-DEL-Varanasi flight (all on one ticket) in June will most likely be delayed due the issues with Pakistan. I originally had a pretty tight connection--arriving in DEL around 1130 and leaving for Varanasi around 1330. Flying first class, so I should get off the plane quickly. It looks like flights arriving from YYZ to DEL arrive now around 1900 if things go well. The last Air India flight is well before 1900, but there is a 1930ish flight from Delhi to Varanasi. It is often delayed and is Air India Express. So, at least from a time perspective, if that Air India Express flight is delayed, I might have time to board it.

I expect that AI will proactively book me on the first morning flight to Varanasi. Ideally, I would like to arrive in Varanasi the day I arrive in Delhi, no matter how late. If I arrive to DEL early enough, would Air India Express allow me to fly with them to Varanasi instead of via Air India? I believe for first class pax on AI, there is someone who meets me at the gate to guide me through immigration etc...so perhaps he can help make it happen if it is possible. Right now, I do not know if theoretically Air India Express will accept an Air India pax.