Air India has embarked on a significant transformation journey under the new ownership of the Tata Group, with an ambitious refit program for 67 aircraft. This move is part of the broader Vihaan strategy aimed at turning the airline into a world-class carrier. By upgrading the cabin interiors of both narrowbody and widebody fleets, Air India is poised to offer passengers a more premium and comfortable flying experience.
Upgrading the Fleet for a New Era
The retrofit will see 27 Airbus A320neo and 40 Boeing widebody aircraft revamped with a three-cabin configuration. Seats, carpets, and upholstery will be refreshed to align with Air India’s rebranding efforts. The first aircraft to undergo this transformation, a five-year-old A320neo registered as VT-EXN, will return to service in December 2024. This single-aisle jet is just the beginning, as the airline plans to retrofit up to four aircraft per month, with the full narrowbody fleet expected to be completed by mid-2025.
Campbell Wilson, Air India’s CEO, noted, “The commencement of interior refit of the narrowbody fleet is an important step in our journey of enhancing the flying experience of our customers.” The upgraded aircraft will feature an eight-seat Business Class, 24-seat Premium Economy, and 132-seat Economy Class. Enhanced features such as wider seat pitches, improved lighting, and modern conveniences like USB ports for both Type A and C devices will ensure a more comfortable and tech-savvy flight.
A Positive Move for Passengers and Competition
This significant investment in aircraft interiors is a bold step toward improving Air India’s competitive position. With the revamped cabins, the airline is set to attract a wider range of passengers, from business travelers to leisure tourists. The inclusion of Premium Economy and improved Business Class will enable Air India to better compete with top-tier Middle Eastern and global airlines that have long dominated these segments.
VURDHAAN’s Role in Aviation Sustainability
While Air India’s retrofit program focuses on enhancing passenger comfort, such fleet upgrades often coincide with sustainability initiatives. At VURDHAAN, we specialize in supporting airlines in achieving sustainability goals through carbon reduction strategies and compliance with global standards like CORSIA, EU ETS, and the UK ETS. By aligning retrofit programs with greener technologies, airlines can not only offer enhanced passenger experiences but also reduce their environmental impact. VURDHAAN works closely with aviation clients to integrate sustainable practices, optimize fleet efficiency, and meet evolving regulatory requirements.
Transforming the Air India Brand
The Tata Group’s vision for Air India is clear: to elevate the airline’s reputation and position it as a world-class competitor. The aircraft retrofit program is just one aspect of this strategy, but it’s a crucial one. By investing in passenger comfort, technology, and sustainable operations, Air India is taking meaningful steps toward a brighter future in aviation.