New Delhi: Air India has announced significant progress in its US$ 400 million fleet retrofit programme, reaffirming its commitment to delivering a world-class flying experience and improving the operational reliability of its legacy aircraft.
Widebody Retrofit in Motion
The airline has officially commenced the retrofit of its widebody Boeing 787-8 fleet, with the first aircraft (VT-ANT) sent to Boeing’s Victorville facility in California in July 2025. A second aircraft will depart in October 2025, with both returning to service in December 2025.
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The widebody retrofit programme, covering 26 B787-8 aircraft, is scheduled for completion by mid-2027. Upgrades will introduce a modern three-class configuration — Business, Premium Economy, and Economy — along with brand-new seating, advanced inflight entertainment systems, refurbished lavatories and galleys, fresh carpeting, and other premium interior enhancements in line with the new Air India product standards.
From early 2027, Air India will also retrofit 13 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, with completion targeted by October 2028. The timeline has been slightly adjusted due to supply chain challenges.
Reliability Enhancement for B787-8 Fleet
In addition to cabin upgrades, Air India has launched a Reliability Enhancement Programme for its legacy B787-8 aircraft. This includes avionics upgrades and component replacements based on Boeing’s latest service bulletins, ensuring improved reliability and reduced operational disruptions.
Seven of the 26 B787-8s will also undergo heavy scheduled maintenance (D-checks) at Victorville, extending their operational lifespan and performance standards.
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Air India Narrowbody Retrofit Nearing Completion
Air India’s narrowbody retrofit programme for its 27 legacy A320neo aircraft, which began in September 2024, is advancing on schedule. Sixteen aircraft have already been retrofitted, with the 15th and 16th returning to service on 9 and 11 August 2025, respectively. The remaining 11 will be completed by September 2025.
The addition of a third retrofit line at GMR’s Hyderabad MRO facility has accelerated progress. These upgraded A320neos, featuring fully refurbished cabins, are now being deployed across key domestic and short-haul international routes, offering enhanced passenger comfort and consistent service quality.
With both widebody and narrowbody retrofit programmes in full swing, Air India is positioning its fleet to meet the highest standards of passenger experience and technical reliability over the coming years.
