Air India Accelerates Fleet Renewal Programme with Boeing 787 Retrofit Plans

Air India is speeding up its fleet renewal programme with plans to retrofit 16 additional Boeing 787-8 aircraft in 2027. The move is part of the airline's efforts to modernize its long-haul fleet and improve the passenger experience.

The Tata Group-owned carrier has already begun refurbishing its widebody fleet, with three retrofitted Boeing 787-8 aircraft inducted in 2026 and four more expected to return to service before the end of the year. The upgrade programme includes redesigned cabin interiors, new seats, and upgraded inflight entertainment systems.

Air India has also announced plans to expand its fleet with newer-generation aircraft, including three Boeing 787-9s delivered in 2026 and two Airbus A350-1000 aircraft expected to join the fleet later this year. The wider Air India Group is targeting a major expansion over the next two years, with more than 100 new aircraft planned for induction in 2027 and 2028.

The airline's CEO, Campbell Wilson, emphasized the importance of long-term improvements despite the challenging operating environment facing the aviation industry. The retrofit programme will bring Air India's legacy 787-8 fleet closer to the standards offered on its newer widebody jets.