New Delhi, September 20, 2024: Tata Group-owned Air India on Tuesday said that it has commenced the over $400-million refit programme for a phased revamp of 67 legacy aircraft in its fleet.
According to the airline, the refit programme will lead to a “refresh of the product to the new Air India experience” with a modern three-cabin configuration, new seats, new carpets, curtains and upholstery.
The refit programme will start with the 27 narrowbody Airbus A320neo aircraft, followed by the 40 widebody Boeing aircraft. Accordingly, the first narrowbody aircraft to commence the refit programme, a single-aisle A320neo (VT-EXN), went into the hangar on Monday.
The airline further said that after prototyping and necessary regulatory approvals, VT-EXN is expected to re-enter commercial service in December, joining the eight recently-delivered and operational Air India A320neo aircraft that already feature the upgraded cabin interiors and configuration.
As per Air India, following VT-EXN, between three and four aircraft per month will undergo retrofit, with upgradation of the full narrowbody fleet expected by the middle of 2025 according to the reports published in financialexpress.com.
“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,” said Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India.
“This comprehensive upgradation of Air India’s physical product is an important component of Air India transforming into a world-class airline,” he said.
The refitted A320neo aircraft will feature eight seats in business, 24 extra legroom seats in premium economy, and 132 seats in economy.
