A massive part of Air India’s transformation phase under the new ownership is retrofitting in-service aircraft with brand-new interiors, modern-day technology and the latest livery. That refurbishment activity is officially underway, with the first of the 67 jets lined up for a thorough overhaul entering the allotted hangar yesterday.
The aircraft, an Airbus A320neo bearing registration number VT-EXN, will receive new upholstery, carpets, curtains, and seats in a three-class configuration—8 seats in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, and 132 in Economy. Once the single-aisle jet is back in service, likely in December 2024, travellers will get various creature comforts. In addition to USB Type A and Type C charging ports and personal electronic device (PED) holders, travellers in Business Class will have 40-inch seats with a 7-inch recline, adjustable armrest, footrest and backrest and a push-button deployable tray table.
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Those travelling in Premium Economy will get 32-inch seats with a 4-inch recline, PED holders and USB charging ports. Similarly, the Economy section will have 28-29-inch seats with a 4-inch recline, PED holders and charging ports.
The 67 jets that will receive the upgrade include 27 narrowbody and 40 widebody. The airline expects to overhaul 3 to 4 aircraft per month. That means the overhauling activity for the narrowbody jets will be finished by mid-2025. Air India says the first widebody jet should enter the hangar for the planned upgrade early next year. All in all, this will cost upwards of USD 400 million.
