On the inaugural day of Wings India 2024, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled India’s first Airbus A350, marking a significant milestone for Air India and bolstering the country’s position in the global aviation arena.
The induction of the Airbus A350 into Air India’s fleet signifies not only the incorporation of cutting-edge aircraft technology but also underscores India’s emergence as a key player in the international aviation industry.
Campbell Wilson, the CEO and Managing Director of Air India, hailed the A350 as a “game-changer,” anticipating a transformative impact on passenger experience and the airline’s global reach. Wilson emphasized that the A350 would not only enhance service quality but also open up new avenues for expansion, aligning with Air India’s broader strategy for reclaiming a prominent position in global aviation.
Amidst a period of rapid growth and transformation, Air India is implementing a comprehensive strategy to rejuvenate its fleet, expand its global route network, and elevate its service offerings, aiming to regain its stature as a global aviation leader.
The Airbus A350, equipped with efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, delivers optimal performance, environmental benefits, and superior passenger comfort. With an impressive range of up to 9,700 nautical miles, the A350 enables non-stop flights from India to destinations like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Air India’s A350-900 boasts a three-class cabin configuration with 316 seats. The business class features 28 private suites in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access and convertible full-sized beds. The Premium Economy cabin offers 24 spacious seats with ample legroom and adjustable headrests, while the Economy class provides 264 seats in a 3-4-3 layout, ensuring a comfortable and stylish flying experience.
Scheduled to commence commercial operations on January 22, 2024, the A350 will initially operate domestically for crew familiarization on routes connecting Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Subsequently, the aircraft will be deployed on international routes.
VT-JRA, Air India’s first A350, is the pioneer of a fleet of 20 Airbus A350-900s ordered by the airline, with five more slated for delivery by March 2024. Additionally, Air India’s commitment to Airbus includes 20 A350-1000s among its orders for a total of 250 new aircraft, underscoring its ambition for a modern and expansive fleet.