Air India’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft are set to undergo a much-needed transformation, with a retrofit program beginning this month (April 2025). The airline’s 27 Dreamliners will receive an entirely new cabin layout, featuring upgraded Business, Premium Economy, and Economy class seating. Until then, passengers flying on these aircraft continue to experience the existing cabin, which has remained unchanged since the airline first introduced the Dreamliner into its fleet.
On a recent flight from Ahmedabad to Delhi, I had the opportunity to experience Air India’s 787-8 Business Class. Having flown the same aircraft type shortly after the Tata Group’s takeover of the airline, I was curious to see how the experience compared. While Air India’s new A350-900s have been making headlines with their modern Aeroflot-inherited interiors, the 787-8s are still operating with older cabins, making the upcoming retrofit an eagerly awaited improvement.
Upon boarding, the first noticeable aspect was the aging Business Class seats, which, while still functional, lacked the refinement expected in premium travel today. The seats offered a lie-flat configuration, but the padding felt worn, and the in-flight entertainment screens, though large, were sluggish and outdated. The cabin crew, however, was attentive and welcoming, embodying the service improvements that Air India has been striving for under Tata Group ownership.
The meal service was a highlight of the flight. Air India has significantly improved its onboard catering, and the Business Class meal was well-presented and flavorful. The menu featured a selection of Indian and international dishes, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The beverage selection was also well-curated, offering a range of fine wines, premium teas, and freshly brewed coffee.
Despite the commendable service and dining experience, the cabin’s outdated appearance reaffirmed the need for the upcoming retrofit. The lack of a Premium Economy cabin and the older-generation Economy seats make the 787-8 feel inconsistent with Air India’s modernized ambitions, especially when compared to the new A350-900s flying international routes.
As Air India embarks on its ambitious transformation, the retrofit of the Dreamliner fleet will be a crucial step in enhancing passenger comfort and aligning the airline’s long-haul product with global competitors. Once the refurbishment is complete, the 787-8 Business Class experience is expected to become significantly more competitive, offering a refreshed and premium in-flight experience. Until then, passengers can look forward to improved service, even as they wait for the hardware to catch up.
