Air India has announced a new order for 100 Airbus aircraft, including 90 narrow-body A320 family planes like A321noe and 10 wide-body A350s. This order is in addition to the airline’s previous commitment of ordering 470 aircraft with Airbus and Boeing in 2023. The airline highlighted that this initiative has been taken to boost its fleet size as part of its broader plans to position itself as a leading global airline.
This latest order will increase Air India’s total fleet orders to 350 aircraft, exceeding the 250-plane deal that was made last year. As per the initial order, 210 A320 family aircraft and 40 A350 were placed. However, a revision was made by the airline in December 2023, by ordering A320neo which comprises 70 A321 Neo and 140 Neo planes. Likewise, the A350 order was inclusive of 20 A350-1000s and 20 A350-900s.
Placing an order for an additional 100 planes showcases a major advancement for Air India’s expansion planning. The Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, underlined India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector because of enhanced infrastructure and the global aspirations of its population. Air India aims to increase its reach and transform into a world-class airline connecting India with global destinations. These aircraft will help the airline to achieve its goal.
The airline has joined hands with Airbus for Flight Hour Services Component (FHS-C) apart from the fleet expansion. This joint venture will ensure comprehensive maintenance support for the growing A350 fleet, by providing integrated engineering services and on-site stock at Delhi. Airbus CEO, Guillaume Faury has shown his confidence in Air India’s growth and asserted Airbus’ commitment to back its transformation plan, Vihaan.AI under Tata’s leadership.
(With inputs from PTI)