Air India Expands Fleet with Airbus and Boeing Deals, Acquiring 470 Aircraft

Air India Signs Agreements with Airbus and Boeing

Air India, the Tata Group-owned airline, has signed agreements with Airbus and Boeing for acquiring 470 planes for an estimated USD 70 billion at list prices. The deal is one of the largest in the history of commercial aviation.

The agreement includes 34 A350-1000, 6 A350-900, 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 10 Boeing 777X widebody aircraft, as well as 140 Airbus A320neo, 70 Airbus A321neo, and 190 Boeing 737MAX narrow-body aircraft.

The purchase agreements were signed on the sidelines of the ongoing Paris Air Show. Air India said the agreements go "one step further in its USD 70 billion (based on list prices) fleet expansion program that it announced in February this year".

The Airbus A350 will lead the deliveries of the new aircraft later this year, with the bulk of the order to arrive from mid-2025 onwards.

Diverse Aircraft Orders

The purchase agreements encompass a variety of aircraft types. Air India's order includes 34 A350-1000 and 6 A350-900 wide-body planes from Airbus, along with 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 10 Boeing 777X wide-body aircraft from Boeing.

Additionally, the airline has ordered 140 Airbus A320neo, 70 Airbus A321neo, and 190 Boeing 737MAX narrow-body aircraft. This comprehensive selection of aircraft demonstrates Air India's strategic approach to meet diverse operational requirements.

Strengthening Fleet Expansion Program

Air India's recently signed agreements with Airbus and Boeing signify a significant step forward in the airline's ambitious USD 70 billion fleet expansion program, which was announced earlier this year.

The new acquisitions will fuel Air India's long-term growth plans and position the airline as a key player in the global aviation industry.

Delivery Timeline and Operational Outlook

The Airbus A350 is set to lead the fleet expansion, with initial deliveries expected later this year. The bulk of the order is scheduled to arrive from mid-2025 onwards, providing Air India with a gradual but substantial enhancement to its fleet capabilities.

This infusion of modern and advanced aircraft is poised to elevate Air India's operations and offer passengers an enhanced travel experience.

Industry Leaders Acknowledge Milestone

N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, expresses confidence that this landmark deal will propel Air India towards long-term success and growth. The Chairman envisions Air India representing the epitome of modern aviation to the world.

N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said the landmark step further positions Air India for long-term growth and success. "We have every hope, will come together to represent the best of modern aviation to the world," he said.

Fleet Renewal and Expansion Plan

Campbell Wilson, CEO, and MD of Air India, highlights the airline's ambitious fleet renewal and expansion program. Within the next five years, Air India aims to operate the most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft across its extensive route network.

This strategic initiative will enhance operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and contribute to sustainable growth.

Support from Airbus and Boeing

Airbus company, Satair, and Boeing Global Services will provide Air India with comprehensive support, including parts and maintenance provisioning, digital applications, and modification services. This collaborative effort ensures that Air India receives a comprehensive range of solutions to optimize the operational performance of its newly acquired fleet.

Conclusion

Air India's landmark agreements with Airbus and Boeing to acquire 470 aircraft solidify the airline's commitment to expand its fleet and strengthen its presence in the aviation industry.

With diverse aircraft orders and deliveries scheduled from later this year, Air India is well-positioned for long-term growth and success. Supported by industry leaders.