Air India has initiated a US$400 million refit programme of 67 legacy aircraft in its fleet, beginning with 27 narrow-body A320neos.
Air India is upgrading its fleet with new cabin configurations and seats, starting with A320s in December. This includes business class and premium economy seats with improved entertainment systems. The widebody fleet will be refitted beginning in early 2025. Campbell Wilson, Air India’s CEO, highlights the importance of enhancing the flying experience for customers.
Air India’s legacy widebody aircraft will be refitted over time.
This comprehensive upgrade of physical products at Air India marks an important step in the transformation of Air India into a world-class airline.”
All set for a makeover by Air India, which will cost an estimated amount of around some $400 million. The refurbishment program, the plan is to give modern look to 67 old aircraft of the national carrier. This makeover will allow the Tata-owned carrier to realize its dream of turning into a luxury airline. Altogether, 27 narrow-body Airbus A320neo aircraft are in the first line. Then comes thorough upgradation of 40 wide-body Boeing aircraft.
The phased revamp will come up with a modernised three-cabin layout across the fleet, encompassing improvements to seating, carpeting, curtains, and upholstery. The Airbus A320neo, VT-EXN, is the first aircraft to enter the hangar this week for this major refit.
After the completion of the prototyping phase plus obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals, VT-EXN is likely to return to commercial service by December 2024.One of eight brand-new A320neo aircraft is designed with new interior cabin interiors and configurations.
Air India aims to retrofit three to four aircraft per month post VT-EXN for a modern narrow-body fleet by mid-2025, according to Campbell Wilson, CEO. The refit marks a crucial upgrade enhancing the customer flying experience and transforming Air India into a top-tier airline.
Airline in 2022
Since 2022, we bought numerous jets, rebranded, and improved operations. A320neo has 8 business-class seats, 4 over-wing seats, 24 premium economy, and 132 economy seats. It offers ample legroom, lighting, and USB charging ports, with updated cabin aesthetics.
Air India to go luxury with 400 million makeover budget.
Business Class seats will be equipped with 40-inch long seats, adjustable so-equipped arms, and charging ports. For Premium Economy, the seats are larger and boast in term of headrest adjustment feature along with 32-inch legroom. The three classes, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class, will install ergonomically designed seats with a pitch of 28-29 inches and extra legroom. More than 28-29 new-generation seats will be installed in all classes.
It is gearing up to upgrade 40 older wide-body Boeing 787s and 777sAir India plans to upgrade three to four aircrafts monthly, finalizing new seat layouts and high-quality seats. Contact with the seat manufacturer for approvals is underway, with the first wide-body upgrade starting in early 2025.
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