Air India welcomes its first retrofitted narrow body aircraft with new seats and livery, BA

Air India has recently reintroduced its first retrofitted narrowbody aircraft, VT-EXN (A320neo), back into service, a key step in the airline’s ongoing transformation. This aircraft is the first of 27 A320neo aircraft, inherited by the airline at the time of the takeover, to undergo a complete retrofit to align with the new Air India standard. The retrofit includes new seats, carpets, curtains, and cabin ambience, as well as a three-class cabin configuration and a fresh coat of paint featuring the airline’s new branding and livery.

VT-EXN was sent for retrofitting last year as part of Air India’s broader plan to upgrade its fleet. This initiative is part of the USD 400 million retrofit programme introduced by the Tata Group, aimed at modernising the airline’s entire fleet of legacy narrowbody and widebody aircraft.

VT-EXN, along with the remaining 26 A320neos, will operate on domestic and short-haul international routes. These aircraft, alongside 14 new A320neos and more legacy aircraft, including 40 widebody B787 and B777 aircraft will undergo makeover during the process

The retrofit programme for all 27 A320neo aircraft, expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025, will see the installation of over 3,500 new Economy Class seats, 600 Premium Economy seats, and 200 Business Class seats. The refurbishment includes the use of 450 meters of premium leather, 15,000 meters of high-quality fabric, and 4,000 meters of plush carpeting.

The retrofitted A320neo features eight Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats with extra legroom, and 132 comfortable Economy seats. These aircraft will also offer a refreshed interior with modern features like USB ports, PED holders, and wider seat pitch, enhancing the overall passenger experience. The retrofit programme will also extend to Air India’s widebody fleet, with the first B787 aircraft scheduled for retrofit next month.