NEW DELHI– Air India (AI) has proclaimed substantial alterations to its strategy for fleet modernization, opting to retrofit 13 existing Airbus A321 aircraft that were initially scheduled for retirement.
This decision signifies a strategic alteration for India’s national carrier as it navigates the persistent global supply chain issues affecting the aviation sector.
The airline had originally planned to phase out these 13 A321 ceo aircraft as a component of its fleet renewal program.
However, ongoing supply chain interruptions have compelled Air India (AI) to prolong the operational lifespan of these older aircraft through extensive retrofitting.
The upgrades to these narrow-body planes are scheduled to commence in early next year, ensuring compliance with current service standards.
Boeing 787-8 Retrofit
Air India (AI) is set to begin retrofitting its initial legacy Boeing 787-8 aircraft in July 2024, despite experiencing delays attributable to certification issues regarding new seating arrangements.
The airline operates a fleet of 27 legacy B787-8 aircraft that require modernization under the comprehensive fleet upgrade initiative.
Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India, has indicated that delays in certification for seating have extended the timeline for the wide-body retrofit program. Major interior upgrades for the first batch of Boeing 787s will begin in July.
Wide-Body Upgrades Timeline
The airline has developed an ambitious plan for its wide-body fleet modernization. Air India (AI) aims to upgrade about 68 percent of its wide-body aircraft by the end of the current financial year.
The entire wide-body fleet upgrade program is anticipated to be finalized by the end of calendar year 2027.
Wilson reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to meeting these deadlines despite the challenges faced across the industry that affect aircraft modification schedules.
Boeing 777 Refresh
Air India (AI) has already initiated its extensive refresh program for legacy Boeing 777 aircraft, with two jets successfully returning to service after undergoing thorough upgrades.
This refresh program entails the installation of new carpets, seat covers, and cushions, along with maintenance for damaged seating components.
The airline expects to complete the Boeing 777 refresh initiative by the end of 2024, marking significant progress in its fleet modernization efforts.
Narrow-Body Upgrades
The carrier has made considerable advancements in upgrading its narrow-body fleet, achieving modifications on roughly 65-68 percent of these aircraft.
Air India (AI) plans to finalize the upgrades for all narrow-body aircraft by the close of 2024, which includes the 13 A321 ceo aircraft set for an extended service life.
Wilson confirmed that the narrow-body fleet modernization is on schedule for completion this year, representing a critical milestone in the airline’s transformation program.
Current Fleet
Air India operates a total of 191 aircraft within its network, consisting of 64 wide-body and 127 narrow-body aircraft.
The wide-body fleet encompasses six A350s, 19 777-300 ERs, five 777-200 LRs, seven 787-9s, and 27 787-8s.
The narrow-body fleet includes six A319s, 94 A320neos, four A320ceos, 13 A321ceos, and ten A321neos.
Supply Chain Challenges
Wilson acknowledged the ongoing impact of global supply chain constraints on the aviation sector, but noted that conditions are gradually improving.
The Air India executive anticipates that a return to normal supply chain conditions will not occur until 2029 or 2030, necessitating adaptive fleet strategies from airlines.
Challenges with engine supply particularly affect the operations of narrow-body aircraft, while the recovery of Boeing’s 737 program is progressively moving towards previous production levels. Wilson emphasized that different aircraft types encounter unique bottlenecks requiring customized solutions.
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Sakshi is currently a DGCA Commercial Pilot working her way into the Indian Aviation industry. While aviation captivates her, she has a talent for crafting engaging articles and short stories, alongside a passion for sports, fitness, and Elon Musk’s Tesla!
Based on an article from aviationa2z.com: https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/06/02/air-india-to-retrofit-13-a321-aircraft/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=air-india-to-retrofit-13-a321-aircraft
