Air India has started a refit programme on 67 aircraft as part of the airline’s rebrand under new owners
27 A320neo and 40 Boeing widebody aircraft will be kitted out with a three-cabin configuration and will have seats, carpets and upholstery fitted.
The first aircraft to receive the re-fit is VT-EXN, a five-year old single-aisle A320neo. After prototyping and necessary regulatory approvals, VT-EXN is expected to re-enter commercial service in December 2024.
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Following VT-EXN, between three and four aircraft per month will undergo retrofit, with upgradation of the full narrow body fleet expected by the middle of 2025.
Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said, “The commencement of interior refit of the narrow body fleet is an important step in our journey of enhancing the flying experience of our customers. Over time, all the legacy widebody aircraft will also be refitted. This comprehensive upgradation of Air India’s physical product is an important component of Air India transforming into a world-class airline.”
The refitted A320neo aircraft will feature eight seats in Business, 24 extra legroom seats in Premium Economy and 132 seats in Economy. Improved cabin lighting, spacious legroom and wider pitch, and modern features, like portable electronic device (PED) holders and USB ports with type A and C options add to the airline’s recent rebrand.
Air India was bought out of state control in late 2022 by the Tata Group. After the acquisition, the new owner announced the ‘Vihaan’ strategy, where the carrier would be revamped in phases in order to compete with the Middle Eastern carriers.