Air India is set to redefine passenger comfort with a substantial $400 million refit program to revamp its fleet of 67 legacy aircraft. The overhaul will introduce a sleek, modern three-cabin configuration across the fleet, featuring updated seats, carpets, curtains, and upholstery. This transformative project will start with the airline’s narrowbody Airbus A320neo and extend to its widebody Boeing aircraft.
Air India’s Refit Program Overview
The first phase of the program focuses on the 27 Airbus A320neo aircraft, with the broader scope eventually encompassing 40 widebody Boeing planes. The inaugural aircraft for this extensive refit is VT-EXN, an A320neo, which began its transformation journey this week. Following prototyping and regulatory approvals, VT-EXN is anticipated to return to commercial service by December 2024. This aircraft will join the eight recently delivered A320neo models that already showcase the revamped cabin interiors and configurations.
The retrofit program will proceed with a methodical approach, refurbishing between three and four aircraft each month. The entire narrowbody fleet is expected to complete the upgrade by mid-2025. This phased strategy ensures minimal disruption to operations while delivering a consistent and high-quality passenger experience.
Campbell Wilson, chief executive officer & managing director, Air India, highlighted the significance of this initiative: “The commencement of the 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. This comprehensive upgradation of Air India’s physical product is an important component of Air India transforming into a world-class airline.”
The extensive refit will be managed by Air India’s Engineering team in collaboration with leading global OEMs such as Collins, Astronics, and Thales. This partnership will see the installation of over 15,000 next-generation seats across all classes, ensuring that every aspect of the cabin meets the highest standards of comfort and innovation.
Redefining In-Flight Comfort
The redesigned A320neo cabins will feature 8 luxurious Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats with extra legroom, and 132 ergonomically designed Economy Class seats. Each cabin is tailored to meet modern traveler needs, with innovations such as:
Business Class: 40-inch ergonomic seats with a 7-inch recline, adjustable armrests, footrests, and backrests, along with a tray table and a personal Electronic Device (PED) holder equipped with multiple charging ports.
Premium Economy: Seats featuring superior upholstery, a four-way adjustable headrest, 32-inch pitch with a 4-inch recline, and dedicated PED holders and USB ports.
Economy Class: Ergonomically designed seats with 28-29 inch pitch, 4-inch recline, and amenities including PED holders and USB ports for enhanced connectivity.
The upgrades extend beyond seating, with new carpets, curtains, and cabin panels that reinforce Air India’s brand livery through fresh tones and design motifs. The addition of subtle cabin lighting and modern features like USB ports and PED holders aims to elevate the overall passenger experience.
Widebody Upgrades on the Horizon
Simultaneously, Air India is preparing for a comprehensive upgrade of its 40 legacy widebody Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft. The airline has selected market-leading seats and in-flight entertainment systems and is finalizing regulatory certifications. The retrofit of the first widebody aircraft is set to commence in early 2025, contingent on supply chain factors.
Air India’s $400 million refit program is not just an investment in its fleet but a commitment to delivering an unparalleled flying experience. As the airline embarks on this transformative journey, passengers can look forward to a new standard of comfort and sophistication in air travel.
