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Air India : has outlined an ambitious expansion of its long-haul operations, positioning 2026 as a pivotal year in the airline’s ongoing transformation. The carrier plans to induct at least 20 next-generation widebody aircraft into international service over the coming months, strengthening connectivity between India and key destinations across Europe, East Asia, and Australia.

The announcement was made by Air India Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson following a special demonstration flight operated by the airline’s first Dreamliner featuring newly designed interiors. The showcase flight, which operated from Delhi to Begumpet, marked a visible milestone in the airline’s broader fleet renewal strategy.

New Dreamliner to Begin Scheduled Operations

The newly delivered Boeing 787-9 will enter regular commercial service on February 1, operating on the Mumbai–Frankfurt sector. According to airline officials, the route will be served five times a week, offering passengers access to upgraded cabins and onboard amenities designed specifically for Air India.

Mumbai–Frankfurt has long been one of the airline’s most heavily traveled international corridors, catering to both business travelers and passengers visiting family and friends. The route also plays a strategic role in feeding connecting traffic through Frankfurt to destinations in North America and across Europe, while supporting onward connections from India to Southeast Asia and Australasia.

Strategic Shift Toward Mumbai Operations

In recent years, most of Air India’s long-haul widebody aircraft have been based in Delhi. Wilson explained that deploying the new Dreamliner from Mumbai reflects a deliberate effort to balance capacity across major Indian hubs and respond to sustained demand from western India.

By introducing the upgraded aircraft on this route, the airline aims to enhance passenger experience while improving operational efficiency. The move is also expected to strengthen Air India’s competitive position on one of its most commercially significant international sectors.

Gradual Expansion Across International Network

Following its initial deployment, the aircraft will be progressively introduced across other European routes, as well as services to Australia and East Asia. Wilson noted that by the end of the year, approximately half of the airline’s Boeing 787 fleet will feature the new interior configuration.

The remaining aircraft are scheduled to undergo retrofitting in 2027, ensuring a consistent product across the long-haul network. This phased approach allows the airline to maintain capacity while steadily upgrading its onboard offering.

Long-Term Fleet Transformation Underway

Air India’s leadership emphasized that the arrival of the new Dreamliner is the result of planning decisions made several years ago. The aircraft was part of an order placed in 2022, with delivery timelines reflecting the complexity of modern aircraft design, manufacturing, and certification.

With deliveries now accelerating, the airline expects 2026, 2027, and 2028 to bring substantial changes to its long-haul fleet. These years are set to redefine Air India’s international presence, supported by a mix of new aircraft deliveries and upgraded existing jets.

First Aircraft Designed Specifically for Air India

In a formal statement, Wilson described the induction of the Boeing 787-9 as a landmark moment within the airline’s five-year Vihaan.AI transformation programme. While nearly 100 new and leased aircraft have already joined the Air India group since privatization, this Dreamliner is the first widebody aircraft designed entirely to the airline’s own specifications.

The customized interiors reflect updated standards for comfort, cabin design, and in-flight service, signaling Air India’s intent to compete more effectively in the global long-haul market. As additional aircraft join the fleet, passengers can expect a steadily improving travel experience aligned with international benchmarks.