Air India has finalized the acquisition of six Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, marking its first purchase of this wide-body aircraft type in over seven years. These aircraft were previously operated on lease and were formerly part of Etihad Airways’ fleet .Wikipedia+3Hindustan Times+3Log in or sign up to view+3
This strategic move aligns with Air India’s ongoing transformation under Tata Group ownership, aiming to modernize its fleet amid increasing air travel demand and supply chain challenges. The airline is concurrently executing a $400 million retrofit program to upgrade 67 of its wide-body and narrow-body planes .Investopedia+4Devdiscourse+4Reuters+4Reuters+7Hindustan Times+7Wikipedia+7
The newly acquired Boeing 777-300ERs are expected to bolster Air India’s long-haul operations, particularly on routes to North America and Europe. These aircraft offer enhanced passenger comfort and operational efficiency, supporting the airline’s goal to recapture market share lost to global competitors .One Mile at a TimeReuters
Air India’s fleet expansion is part of a broader strategy that includes a historic order of 470 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus in 2023, comprising 190 Boeing 737 MAXs, 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, 10 Boeing 777X, and 250 Airbus jets . The airline is also in discussions to acquire additional wide-body aircraft, including Airbus A350s and Boeing 777Xs, to further enhance its international network .Wikipedia+5Investopedia+5Reuters+5Simple Flying+2Reuters+2Aviation A2Z+2
With these developments, Air India is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for international travel and to reestablish its presence as a leading global carrier.
