Air India has welcomed its first retrofitted narrowbody aircraft back into operation. The Airbus A320-251N aircraft (VT-EXN) represents “an important milestone in the carrier’s transformation journey” under Tata Group ownership.
VT-EXN is the first of 27 narrowbody aircraft inherited at the time of Tata’s takeover that was selected for a complete retrofit to the new Air India standard. The comprehensive upgrade includes new seats, carpets, curtains, cabin ambience, a three-class cabin configuration, and a fresh coat of paint with the new Air India livery.
The retrofitting program, announced by the Tata Group last year, is part of a USD400 million investment to upgrade the airline’s entire fleet of legacy narrowbody and widebody aircraft. All 27 A320neos are scheduled to complete their retrofits by the third quarter of 2025.
The refitted A320neo features eight luxurious Business Class seats, 24 extra legroom seats in Premium Economy, and 132 comfortable Economy seats. Modern amenities include portable electronic device (PED) holders, USB ports, spacious legroom, and wider seat pitch.
In total, the retrofit program for the A320neo fleet will install over 3,500 brand-new Economy Class seats, more than 600 Premium Economy seats, and 200 Business Class seats. The materials used include 450 meters of premium leather, 15,000 meters of high-quality fabric, and 4,000 meters of plush carpeting.
The retrofitted narrowbodies will operate on domestic and short-haul international routes alongside 14 new A320neos that have recently joined the fleet, ensuring a uniform upgraded experience for passengers.
The airline’s wider transformation also includes an upcoming retrofit of 40 widebody B787 and B777 aircraft, with the first B787 scheduled to undergo its makeover next month.
Air India’s transformation program, dubbed “Vihaan.AI,” is part of a five-year plan following the airline’s return to Tata Sons in 2022 after 70 years under government ownership. The airline has placed orders for 570 new aircraft and successfully merged sister airlines AirAsia India and Vistara into Air India Express and Air India, respectively.
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