Air India Starts $400 Million Legacy Retrofit Program

The project began in April and will entail retrofits on Air India’s 27 Airbus A320neos and 40 Boeing widebodies, which include 777s and 787s. Its A320neos are currently undergoing a complete revamp to reflect “a new Air India experience,” according to the airline, including new seats, carpets, curtains and upholstery, as well as a modern three-cabin configuration. Air India has already acquired about 25,000 seats from Collins Aerospace that will be installed on the A320neos.

The first A320neo began the retrofit process on Sept. 16 and Air India plans for it to resume commercial operations in the next three months. Upon completion, this aircraft will join Air India’s fleet of eight recently delivered and operational A320neos that already feature upgraded cabin interiors and configurations.

Air India says between 3-4 aircraft will undergo retrofits per month, and it expects to complete retrofits on all of its legacy A320neos by the middle of 2025.

The retrofitted A320neos will include eight business-class seats, 24 premium-economy seats and 132 economy-class seats. The cabin will also feature lighting enhancements, more spacious legroom and wider pitch, aimed at improving passenger experience. In addition, the cabins will have portable electronic device holders and USB-A and USB-C charging ports. Air India’s Engineering team will closely coordinate with OEMs including Astronics, Collins Aerospace and Thales on the project.

Simultaneously, Air India is making final preparations for upgrades on its 40 legacy Boeing 787s and 777s. The airline has selected new seats and inflight entertainment systems, and it has completed interior designs. Air India is working closely with seat manufacturers to finalize regulatory certification and expedite production.