Upgrades Include New Three-Class Cabins, Advanced Systems; Boeing 777-300ER and A320neo Fleets to Follow
Air India has announced an ambitious $400 million retrofit program aimed at transforming the interiors and systems of its Boeing 787-8 fleet, with plans extending to its Boeing 777-300ER and A320neo aircraft. The overhaul focuses on enhancing passenger comfort and operational reliability while aligning with the airline’s upgraded product standards.
Boeing 787-8 Retrofit: New Interiors and Cutting-Edge Features
- The retrofit program officially began in July 2025 with the first of 26 Boeing 787-8 aircraft (VT-ANT) arriving at Boeing’s California facility.
- A second aircraft is scheduled for October, with both expected to return to service by December 2025 featuring:
- New three-class cabin layout including Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy seats
- Advanced in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems
- Upgraded carpeting, curtains, upholstery
- Renovated lavatories and galleys
- The full retrofit schedule aims for completion by mid-2027.
Expansion to Boeing 777-300ER Fleet
- The retrofit program will also cover 13 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
- Upgrades are planned to start in early 2027, with completion expected by October 2028 due to supply chain delays.
Reliability Enhancement Program for B787-8
- Air India has initiated a Reliability Enhancement Program for its 26 Boeing 787-8 aircraft to minimize operational disruptions.
- This involves detailed analysis of maintenance records and implementation of Boeing’s recommended service modifications.
- Seven aircraft will undergo heavy scheduled maintenance (D-checks) at the California facility.
Narrowbody Fleet Retrofit: A320neo Upgrade Progress
- Retrofit of Air India’s 27 legacy A320neo aircraft started in September 2024 and remains on track for completion by September 2025.
- A third maintenance line at GMR’s MRO facility in Hyderabad has sped up the process.
- To date, 15 aircraft have been retrofitted and returned to service, with the 16th scheduled shortly.
- Remaining aircraft are expected to complete the retrofit program by September 2025.
Air India’s $400 million retrofit initiative represents a significant investment in fleet modernization, promising passengers enhanced comfort, cutting-edge technology, and improved operational reliability across its widebody and narrowbody aircraft. The phased rollout starting with the Boeing 787-8 marks a major milestone in the airline’s journey towards elevating the travel experience.
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