Air India has finalized its order for 250 Airbus aircraft, including 140 A320neo and 70 A321neo single-aisle aircraft, as well as 34 A350-1000 and six A350-900 wide-body jets. The airline will also be using Airbus' Integrated Materials Solutions (IMS) and Skywise Core X3 platforms to help ensure the highest level of fleet availability and digitalization. The order was previously announced earlier this year.
The purchase agreements for the aircraft, as well as the Letters of Intent for maintenance and digital services, were signed in the presence of N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, Guillaume Faury, Airbus CEO, Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, and Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director, Airbus India and South Asia at the Paris Air Show 2023.
The order marks the entry into service of the A350 in India, the world's fastest-growing aviation market. The all-new, long-range aircraft will help unlock the pent-up potential of India's long-haul market, its technology, reach and second-to-none comfort enabling new routes and passenger experience with better economics and enhanced sustainability. Alongside the A350s, the A320 Family fleets will be the efficient, versatile asset to continue democratizing and decarbonizing air travel in India – from domestic, regional, up to international levels. Deliveries are set to commence with the first A350-900 before the end of 2023.
In summary, Air India has placed a massive order for Airbus aircraft, which is a vote of confidence in the airline's future. The new aircraft will help Air India expand its network and offer its passengers a more comfortable and sustainable flying experience.