Up To 290 Boeing Jets Could Be Added To The Air India Fleet

In addition to buying 250 Airbus aircraft, Air India is also in touch with American aviation giant Boeing. If the deal goes through, the Indian carrier will buy 220 aeroplanes and carry the option to acquire 70 additional. Besides that, Air India will benefit from Boeing Global Services for lifecycle support services. That includes digital solutions, spare parts and land gear exchange programs, pilot and maintenance technician training, and aircraft modifications.

So, which Boeing aeroplanes has Air India shortlisted? The 220’s break up comprises 190 737 Max, 20 787 Dreamliner and 10 777X. In addition, 50 737 Max and 20 787-9s make up the additional 70. Once finalised, this will become the largest single order for Boeing from South Asia.

Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said:

Air India’s selection of Boeing’s family of passenger jets shows their confidence in our products and services in the world’s fastest-growing aviation market. In addition, their decision will support engineering and manufacturing jobs at Boeing factories in Washington state, South Carolina and across our supply base.

Change Image   |   Delete Image

Campbell Wilson, who is the CEO and MD at Air India, added his remarks:

This acquisition of nearly 300 highly advanced Boeing jets is a core element of Vihaan.AI, the comprehensive transformation and growth strategy we are pursuing at Air India. With this order, we are delighted to take our long relationship with Boeing to a new level.

According to Boeing, the 737 Max will help reduce fuel usage and emissions by 20 per cent compared to the aeroplanes it replaces. One model from the 737 Max family is the 737-8. It can accommodate between 162-210 passengers while offering a range of 3,500 nautical miles. On the other hand, the 737-10 is the largest in the family. It provides “best per-seat economics” and can seat between 188-230 passengers. As far as the travel range is concerned, it can fly 3,100 nautical miles.

Moving to the 787-9 long-distance hauler. It is a more efficient version of the 787-8, 27 of which are already under Air India’s umbrella. The new one promises a better range and 25 per cent better fuel efficiency. Lastly, the 777-9. It is the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet. Once delivered, it will be the largest aircraft in Air India’s fleet. Moreover, Boeing claims that the 777-9 will provide a 10 per cent lower fuel consumption and a 10 per cent decrease in operating costs.