Launched in September 2024 as part of a broader $400 million fleet modernisation initiative, the retrofit programme was completed within a record one-year timeframe.
Air India has completed the first phase of its legacy fleet retrofit programme, with all 27 A320neo aircraft returning to service featuring brand-new cabin interiors and the airline’s updated livery. Combined with 14 newly delivered A320neo aircraft and those integrated following the merger of Vistara, the airline now operates 104 A320 Family aircraft with new or upgraded interiors.
The retrofit programme, launched in September 2024 as part of a broader $400 million fleet modernisation initiative, was completed within a record one-year timeframe. The upgraded aircraft now support 3,024 weekly flights across 82 domestic and short-haul international routes.
Expanded Route Coverage
Air India’s refreshed A320 Family fleet now operates on all major domestic routes, including Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Hyderabad, Delhi-Bengaluru, Delhi-Kolkata, Delhi-Chennai, Mumbai-Bengaluru, Mumbai-Hyderabad, Mumbai-Chennai and Mumbai-Kolkata, among others. On the international front, the aircraft serve key short-haul destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Bali (Denpasar), Manila, Mauritius, Malé, Riyadh, Jeddah, and most flights to and from Singapore.
Cabin Enhancements
Each of the 27 retrofitted A320neo aircraft now features a three-class cabin configuration, designed to deliver a consistent and upgraded inflight experience. The retrofit involved the installation of 3,564 new economy class seats, 648 premium economy seats, and 216 business class seats. The interiors incorporate over 450 m of premium leather, 15,000 m of fabric, and 5,000 sq m of carpet, enhancing both comfort and aesthetics. More than 8,000 kg of paint were used to apply Air India’s bold new livery across the fleet.
All seats are equipped with USB-A and USB-C charging ports, enabling passengers to power personal devices and access ‘Vista Stream’, the airline’s inflight entertainment service offering nearly 900 hours of global cinematic content.
Air India has consistently recorded a Net Promoter Score (NPS) ranging between 45 and 50 points each month for its narrowbody operations, reflecting improved customer satisfaction and service consistency.
Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India, said, “We continue to make good progress on the upgradation of our fleet. With over 100 of our A320 Family aircraft now featuring modern interiors, our guests will enjoy a superior travel experience across our extensive network.”
Next Phase of Fleet Upgrades
Beginning in 2026, Air India will retrofit 13 legacy A321 aircraft, sequencing them alongside the former Vistara fleet for cabin upgrades and livery refresh. The airline has also commenced its widebody retrofit programme, with the first of 26 Boeing 787-8 aircraft (VT-ANT) flown to Boeing’s Victorville facility in July 2025. These aircraft will receive new three-class interiors, with completion targeted for mid-2027.
In addition, Air India will begin retrofitting 13 legacy Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in early 2027. Completion is expected by October 2028, with the timeline adjusted due to global supply chain delays.