Tata Group-owned Air India (AI) has initiated a temporary retrofitting program for its Boeing 777 fleet operating on routes to the United States and Canada. This move comes in response to global supply chain disruptions that have impacted the airline’s ability to carry out its full retrofit plans.
The airline currently operates thirteen Boeing 777 aircraft on these international routes, and these planes will now undergo essential upgrades to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. The retrofitting process is being carried out in collaboration with SIA Engineering Company, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SQ) Group, which will handle the updates across the entire 777 fleet.
The first Boeing 777 aircraft set off for Singapore last week, marking the start of this interim enhancement initiative. SIA Engineering Company will oversee the retrofit process, ensuring that these critical upgrades are completed in a timely manner, with minimal disruption to Air India’s long-haul operations.
Although the retrofitting will address urgent updates, Air India’s long-term goal remains to complete a full fleet-wide retrofit as soon as the global supply chain situation stabilizes. The retrofits will include cabin improvements, technological enhancements, and other updates designed to elevate the passenger experience, ensuring that Air India remains competitive on its international routes.
This move is seen as part of Air India’s broader strategy to modernize and improve its fleet under the ownership of the Tata Group. By investing in the upgrades of its aircraft, the airline aims to continue providing high-quality service while addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing global supply chain disruptions.
