Air India's Boeing Aircraft Upgrade Delayed

The wait for passengers just got longer. According to a report in the Hindu Businessline, flyers will have to wait longer for a better in-flight experience on Air India's long haul flights to Australia, Europe and North America. 

Air India had announced $400 million plan to fully refurbish its legacy Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft with latest generation seats and new in-flight entertainment system in December 2022. But the plan is now pushed to next year.

The article quoted sources saying that there are some issues related to certification. The first of the 40 aircraft (27 B787s and 13 B777s) was to undergo cabin refurbishment in August with the rest over the next few months. The actual refurbishment work on the Boeing widebody aircraft will now only start next year, it is learnt.

However, the refurbishment of Air India's narrow body Airbus A320 aircraft from a twin class to three class (business, premium economy and economy) configuration will start from later this year. SInce Vistara operates three class Airbus aircraft, it will reduce the complexity between the two airlines that are set for a merger.

In the last few months, Air India has already inducted four new Airbus A350 aircraft. The airline also operates eleven leased Boeing 777 aircraft with good amenities on certain long haul routes.

The delay creates problems for the airline. Air India's in-flight product in its Boeing fleet remains inferior. there have been complaints of broken seats and non functional in-flight entertainment system. Air India 's engineering team has worked with Tata Technologies to manufacture small parts, panels and assemblies. Repairs are being regularly carried out but problems have not fully resolved. 

An approval process in a refurbishment exercise is two part. Parts like seats need to be certified since need to withstand extreme stress caused by accidents. The installation and assembly requires regulatory approvals as well.

The exact reason for certification delay in case of Air India aircraft is unclear.

Air India will be introducing premium economy cabins on both the Boeing 777 and 787. The first class cabin will be retained on the 777s. The airline has engaged leading London-based product design companies, JPA Design and Trendworks, to assist with the cabin interior design elements of this refurbishment programme.