Air India Begins ₹3,500-Crore Upgrade of Dreamliner and A320neo Fleet
Air India has launched a massive ₹3,500-crore (US$400 million) fleet modernisation programme aimed at upgrading interiors and boosting the reliability of its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, Boeing 777-300ERs, and Airbus A320neo aircraft.
Widebody Retrofit in Progress
The carrier’s widebody retrofit programme is now underway, starting with the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner fleet. The first aircraft (VT-ANT) was sent to Boeing’s Victorville facility in California in July 2025. A second aircraft will follow in October, with both expected to return to service by December 2025.
All 26 Dreamliners will be upgraded by mid-2027 with a refreshed three-class layout—Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy. The revamp includes new seating, next-gen inflight entertainment, modernised lavatories and galleys, and updated soft furnishings in line with Air India’s new service standards.
Retrofitting of 13 Boeing 777-300ERs is set to begin in early 2027 and finish by October 2028, with timelines adjusted due to global supply chain constraints.
Reliability Boost for B787-8 Fleet
Alongside cabin upgrades, Air India is introducing a Reliability Enhancement Programme for its Dreamliners, covering avionics and systems updates to meet current industry benchmarks. These modifications, based on Boeing’s service bulletins and operational data, aim to reduce disruptions. Seven Dreamliners will also undergo heavy maintenance (D-checks) in Victorville.
Narrowbody Retrofit on Schedule
The refurbishment of 27 legacy Airbus A320neos, which began in September 2024, is progressing well. Fifteen aircraft have already been completed, with the latest delivered on August 9 and the 16th scheduled for August 11. The addition of a third retrofit line at GMR’s MRO facility in Hyderabad has accelerated work, with completion targeted for September 2025.
The upgraded A320neos, with brand-new cabins, are now operating on key domestic and short-haul international routes, significantly enhancing the passenger experience.
