Air India has unveiled its first retrofitted Boeing 787-8 aircraft as part of a $400 million fleet upgrade programme, signalling a renewed push to attract premium travellers and boost long-haul revenues.
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Air India has unveiled its first retrofitted Boeing 787-8 aircraft as part of a $400 million fleet upgrade programme, signalling a renewed push to attract premium travellers and boost long-haul revenues.
The Tata Group-owned carrier is overhauling cabins, introducing suite-style seating, and expanding lounge offerings as it seeks to reposition itself in the global aviation market.
The upgrade programme covers eight Boeing 787-8 aircraft and legacy Boeing 777s, marking a broader effort to modernise Air India’s long-haul fleet, according to The Times of India.
The first retrofitted Dreamliner features a three-class configuration, including 20 business class suites, 25 premium economy seats and 205 economy seats. The refurbishment was carried out at Boeing’s modification facility.
The changes are aimed at addressing long-standing concerns over dated interiors and inconsistent passenger experience, while improving the airline’s ability to command higher fares.
“The retrofit of our first widebody aircraft is a visible symbol of the momentum behind Air India’s transformation,” chief executive Campbell Wilson said, according to The Economic Times.
The revamped business class introduces suite-style seats with sliding doors, along with redesigned controls, enclosed storage and upgraded finishes.
Premium economy and economy cabins have been fitted with new seats supplied by RECARO, reflecting a broader effort to standardise comfort across classes, The Times of India reported.
On the ground, Air India is investing in enhanced lounge facilities at key hubs including Delhi, New York and San Francisco, offering upgraded seating and dining to appeal to higher-paying passengers.
The strategy aligns with a wider industry shift, as global carriers invest in premium products to drive margins. Airlines such as United and Delta have expanded their high-end offerings in recent years, intensifying competition on long-haul routes.
By upgrading both inflight and ground experience, Air India is aiming to strengthen its position among international travellers and capture a larger share of premium traffic, according to The Times of India.
Executives said early signs show improvements in customer satisfaction and ticket yields, indicating that the premium-focused approach may be gaining traction.
The retrofit programme is expected to continue through the airline’s widebody fleet, with multiple aircraft already undergoing upgrades.
If completed on schedule by 2027, the initiative could help Air India improve its competitiveness on key routes to Europe, the UK and Australia, according to The Economic Times.
However, the pace of execution and consistency in service delivery will be critical. Any delays or cost pressures could weaken the airline’s ability to sustain momentum against established global rivals.
For now, the upgraded Dreamliner marks a visible step in Air India’s broader transformation, as it seeks to rebuild its brand around a more premium offering.
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