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The first plane, an A320neo model named VT-EXN, entered the hangar on Monday to undergo the refit. (Photo: Air India)
The newly designed A320neo will offer 8 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 132 Economy seats, with extra legroom, USB ports, and device holders for added convenience.
Air India has kicked off a major $400 million renovation plan to revamp 67 of its older aircraft.
This makeover will bring a fresh, modern experience to passengers with new cabins, seats, carpets, curtains, and more. The upgrade will first start with 27 narrow-body Airbus A320neo planes, followed by 40 wide-body Boeing aircraft.
The first plane to enter this transformation is the A320neo, known as VT-EXN, which began its upgrade on Monday. Once the required approvals are in place, it’s expected to rejoin service in December 2024. This upgraded A320neo will join the fleet of eight newly delivered Air India A320neos that already feature the updated interiors.
Air India plans to refurbish around 3-4 planes each month, aiming to finish the entire narrow-body fleet by mid-2025.
CEO Campbell Wilson expressed his excitement about the revamp, stating “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 refurbished A320neo planes will feature three cabin classes: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. Passengers can enjoy luxury with 8 seats in Business, 24 extra legroom seats in Premium Economy, and 132 comfy seats in Economy. Other perks include improved lighting, more legroom, and modern amenities like USB charging ports and holders for electronic devices.
The Business class will offer 40-inch ergonomic seats with adjustable armrests, footrests, and backrests, along with a tray table and device holder. Premium Economy will feature larger seats, a 32-inch pitch, and a four-way adjustable headrest. Economy will have well-designed seats with a 28-29 inch seat pitch and recline for a comfortable journey.
Air India’s engineering team is coordinating this project with top global partners like Collins, Astronics, and Thales. Over 15,000 next-gen seats will be installed across all classes.
Meanwhile, preparations are also underway to upgrade the interiors of 40 Boeing 787 and 777 wide-body planes, set to begin in early 2025, offering top-of-the-line seating and entertainment systems.
