The Tata Group-owned Air India is all set to invest $400 million for the refurbishment of the cabin interiors of its existing widebody fleet. The refurbishment will include a complete overhaul of all existing cabin interiors, including the addition of latest-generation seats and best-in-class inflight entertainment across all classes and the introduction of the premium economy cabin, the airline said in a statement.
Air India currently has a fleet of 40 widebody aircraft that includes 27 Boeing 787-8 and 13 B777. Besides the airline is also planning to lease another six widebody B777 to expand its international operations as a part of its five-year robust expansion plan. Besides, the airline will also lease another 30 aircraft as per its earlier announcement. All of the 36 leased planes will be inducted in 2023.
Campbell Wilson, Managing Director and CEO at Air India, said: “Growing our network is an essential part of Air India's Vihaan.AI transformational journey and we remain committed to increasing connectivity and frequency of flights both domestically and internationally.”
London-based product design companies, JPA Design, and Trendworks will be assisting with the cabin interior design elements of this refurbishment program. The process is expected to be completed by 2024.
Air India's 777-300ERs will have four class configurations -- first, business, premium economy, and Economy and will be deployed to connect metro cities of the country with more international destinations, the airline added.