Air India Kicks Off $400 Million Refit Of 67 Aircraft To Enhance Passenger Experience

Tata Group-owned Air India has officially launched a $400-million refurbishment program to upgrade 67 of its legacy aircraft.

This phased initiative will modernise the airline's fleet with new seats, carpets, curtains, and upholstery and introduce a three-cabin configuration. The airline announced that this transformation is part of delivering the "new Air India experience."

The project begins with the 27 narrowbody Airbus A320neo aircraft, followed by the refurbishment of 40 widebody Boeing planes. The first to undergo the upgrade, a single-aisle A320neo (VT-EXN), entered the hangar on Monday to begin the refit process.

Following prototyping and regulatory approvals, the VT-EXN is expected to return to commercial service in December 2024, rejoining Air India's fleet of newly delivered A320neo aircraft with enhanced interiors. Air India plans to retrofit three to four aircraft each month, with the full narrow-body fleet expected to be upgraded by mid-2025.

Speaking on the initiative, Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, emphasised the importance of the refit. "The commencement of interior refit of the narrowbody fleet is an important step in our journey of enhancing the flying experience for our customers. Over time, all the legacy widebody aircraft will also be refitted," Wilson stated.

He added, "This comprehensive upgradation is a vital component of Air India's transformation into a world-class airline," reports Times Of India.

The upgraded A320neo aircraft will offer eight seats in business class, 24 extra-legroom seats in premium economy, and 132 seats in economy, ensuring a more comfortable and modern flying experience for passengers.

Air India's revamp is part of the airline's broader strategy to reposition itself in the competitive global aviation market.