Tata Group-owned Air India marked a significant milestone in its transformation journey by welcoming its first narrow-body aircraft in the new livery. The Airbus A320 Neo, registered VT-RTN, arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi from the Airbus facility in Toulouse, France, on Sunday.
This addition to the Air India fleet is part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to modernize and enhance its service offerings. The A320 Neo features a three-class configuration, including luxury business class seats, 24 premium economy seats with extra legroom, and 132 comfortable economy class seats. Notably, this is the first time Air India is offering premium economy on its narrow-body aircraft.
The A320 Neo is expected to enter service in August 2024, primarily operating on domestic short-haul routes. Currently, three A320 Neo aircraft with three-class configurations in the old Air India livery have already commenced operations within the domestic network.
Starting early next year, Air India plans to further enhance the flying experience for its guests by deploying new, upgraded, and refurbished aircraft across both its narrow-body and wide-body fleets. This initiative is part of the airline’s broader strategy to revamp its fleet and service standards.
Founded by the legendary J.R.D. Tata, Air India has a rich history in the aviation sector. Its inaugural flight took off on October 15, 1932. Over the decades, Air India has built an extensive domestic network and operates non-stop flights to major cities worldwide, including destinations in the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Far East, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Gulf.
After 69 years as a government-owned enterprise, Air India and its low-cost subsidiary Air India Express were welcomed back into the Tata Group in January 2022. The airline is currently navigating through a significant five-year transformation roadmap under the aegis of Vihaan.AI, with an ambition to become a world-class airline with an Indian heart.
The first phase of this transformation, known as the Taxi phase, recently concluded. This phase focused on addressing the basics, such as returning many long-grounded aircraft to service, recruiting additional talent across flying and ground functions, upgrading technology, and enhancing customer care initiatives.
As a member of Star Alliance, the world’s largest global airline consortium, Air India benefits from extensive connectivity and the ability to facilitate travel for passengers worldwide. The addition of the new A320 Neo underscores Air India’s commitment to providing a superior travel experience and achieving its goal of becoming a leading global airline.
