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Air India's $400 Million Refit Program Begins: Revamping 67 Jets to Elevate Passenger Experience and Strengthen Indian Aviation

Air India's $400 Million Refit Program Begins: Revamping 67 Jets to Elevate Passenger Experience and Strengthen Indian Aviation

In a significant move aimed at rejuvenating its fleet and enhancing customer experience, Tata Group-owned Air India has launched a $400-million refit program.

This initiative marks a phased revamp of 67 legacy aircraft in the airline's fleet, part of a broader strategy to transform Air India into a world-class airline. The program will bring modern three-cabin configurations, new seats, and upgraded interiors, showcasing the airline's commitment to providing a refreshed, premium travel experience.

This extensive modernisation plan will not only improve Air India’s standing globally but also highlight its importance in India's growing aviation industry.

The Phased Revamp of the Fleet

The refit program began with the retrofit of a narrowbody Airbus A320neo aircraft, registered as VT-EXN, which entered the hangar on Monday. Air India aims to complete the upgrade of all 27 narrowbody Airbus A320neo aircraft first, followed by 40 widebody Boeing aircraft. Once completed, passengers flying on Air India's fleet will enjoy a modernised cabin with new carpets, curtains, upholstery, and seating, reflecting the airline’s "new Air India experience."

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After the completion of prototyping and obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals, the first retrofitted A320neo (VT-EXN) is expected to return to service in December 2024.

This aircraft will join the eight recently delivered A320neo planes that already feature upgraded cabin interiors. Going forward, the airline plans to retrofit between three and four aircraft per month, with the complete upgrade of the narrowbody fleet targeted by mid-2025.

Transforming the Passenger Experience

The comprehensive upgrades include a modern three-cabin configuration designed to enhance customer comfort across all classes. The newly fitted A320neo aircraft will offer eight business-class seats, 24 premium economy seats with extra legroom, and 132 economy-class seats.

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This new configuration is set to make Air India more competitive, catering to a wide range of passengers, from business travelers to those seeking a more comfortable economy experience.
Air India's CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, highlighted the importance of this initiative in elevating the overall flying experience. "The commencement of interior refit of the narrowbody 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," he said. He further added, "This comprehensive upgradation of Air India’s physical product is an important component of Air India transforming into a world-class airline."

Significance for the Indian Aviation Industry

This ambitious fleet revamp is not only a milestone for Air India but also a significant development in the broader context of the Indian aviation industry. As India’s aviation market continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, the modernisation of Air India’s fleet is essential to maintain competitiveness against global and domestic carriers.

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With the country poised to become a key player in the international aviation market, the Air India revamp serves as a testament to the industry’s shift toward improved infrastructure, customer experience, and technological advancements.

The airline’s initiative also supports India’s ambitious plans for expanding its aviation sector. Recently, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced plans to establish three international aviation hubs in India over the next decade, further underscoring the importance of a modernised and competitive Air India fleet. With a revamped fleet, Air India is in a strong position to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a global aviation hub.

Conclusion

Air India's $400-million refit program represents a bold step forward in modernizing the airline's legacy fleet and enhancing the overall passenger experience. By revamping 67 jets, Air India is not only signaling its commitment to delivering world-class services but also aligning itself with the rapid evolution of the Indian aviation sector.

As the airline embarks on this transformation, it is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s position as a major player in global aviation.