GURUGRAM, 17 SEPTEMBER 2024 — Air India, India’s leading global airline, has unveiled a significant refit initiative valued at over US$400 million aimed at modernizing its legacy fleet. The program will see a phased revamp of 67 aircraft, starting with 27 Airbus A320neos and extending to 40 widebody Boeing planes.
The transformation will overhaul the interior of the aircraft to deliver the new Air India experience, featuring a modern three-cabin configuration. The refit will include new seats, carpets, curtains, upholstery, and a fresh livery. The first aircraft to undergo this upgrade is VT-EXN, a narrowbody Airbus A320neo, which entered the hangar on Monday. Following initial prototyping and regulatory approvals, VT-EXN is slated to return to service in December 2024. This aircraft will join the eight newly-delivered A320neo planes already showcasing the updated interiors.
Starting with VT-EXN, Air India plans to retrofit three to four aircraft per month, with the entire narrowbody fleet expected to be upgraded by mid-2025. The refit will bring enhanced comfort across all cabin classes. The Business Class will feature 40-inch ergonomic seats with adjustable features, including a tray table with a PED holder and multiple charging ports. Premium Economy will offer larger seats with a 32-inch pitch and superior upholstery, while Economy Class will benefit from improved ergonomics and modern amenities, such as PED holders and USB ports.
Campbell Wilson, CEO & Managing Director of Air India, emphasized the importance of this refit program in elevating the passenger experience. “The commencement of the interior refit of the narrowbody fleet is a crucial step in enhancing our customers’ flying experience. Over time, we will also refit all our legacy widebody aircraft. This comprehensive upgrade is a key part of Air India’s transformation into a world-class airline.”
The refit project will be managed by Air India’s Engineering team in collaboration with global OEMs such as Collins, Astronics, and Thales. The initiative will see the installation of over 15,000 next-generation seats across all classes.
In parallel, Air India is preparing for a full interior upgrade of 40 legacy widebody Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft. With market-leading seats and inflight entertainment systems already selected, final preparations are underway. The first widebody aircraft retrofits are expected to begin in early 2025, subject to supply chain considerations.
About Air India:
Founded by JRD Tata, Air India has been a pioneer in Indian aviation since its inaugural flight in 1932. With an extensive global network spanning 29 countries across five continents, Air India connects India to major destinations worldwide. Following its return to the Tata group in 2022, Air India embarked on Vihaan.AI, a five-year transformation journey. The current ‘Climb’ phase focuses on achieving excellence in operations and customer experience.
A member of Star Alliance, Air India offers seamless global connectivity as a full-service airline, complemented by its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express, which serves domestic and regional routes.