Air India has opted for Boeing’s top-of-the-line jets, such as the 737 MAX, 787 Dreamliner, and 777X airplanes. The Indian carrier has committed to purchasing 190 737 MAXs, which will include 737-8s and 737-10s, to operate across the airline’s domestic and international routes. Additionally, they have secured options for another 50 aircraft. In a bid to broaden its international reach, Air India has chosen 20 787-9 Dreamliners, with options for 20 more aircraft. They are also set to be the newest 777X customer, having selected 10 777-9s. The extensive agreement includes services to ensure the longevity of Air India’s fleet for many years to come.
Boeing and Air India have announced that the carrier will expand its future fleet with Boeing’s fuel-efficient airplanes, including 190 737 MAX, 20 787 Dreamliner, and 10 777X airplanes. As part of Air India’s growth strategy, this acquisition will help sustainably address the rapidly growing market for air travel in South Asia. The comprehensive agreement between Boeing and Air India also includes options for an additional 50 737 MAXs and 20 787-9s. This agreement represents the largest Boeing order in South Asia and marks a significant milestone in the aerospace company’s 90-year partnership with Air India.
Air India’s fleet strategy will be supported by Boeing Global Services, which will provide lifecycle support services, including digital solutions, spare parts, pilot and maintenance technician training, aircraft modifications, and other services. The 737 MAX will offer flexibility for Air India’s domestic and international routes while reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 20% compared to previous airplanes. The 737 MAX family includes the 737-8, which can seat 162 to 210 passengers and has a range of 3,500 nautical miles, and the 737-10, which can seat 188 to 230 passengers with a range of 3,100 nautical miles.
The 787 Dreamliner family has already proven to be efficient and flexible for Air India’s operations, with an existing fleet of 27 787-8s. The 787-9 will provide increased capacity, greater range, and 25% better fuel efficiency compared to earlier generation airplanes. The flagship 777-9, the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet, will be the largest airplane in Air India’s fleet. With its spacious cabin, new custom architecture, and innovations from the 787, the 777-9 will provide 10% lower fuel consumption and emissions and 10% lower operating costs than competing airplanes.
Campbell Wilson, CEO and MD of Air India, said that this acquisition of nearly 300 advanced Boeing airplanes is a core element of Vihaan.AI, the airline’s comprehensive transformation and growth strategy. Wilson added that the new airplanes will enable Air India to expand its network, both domestically and internationally, and offer passengers a world-class onboard product. Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said that Air India’s selection of Boeing’s family of passenger jets shows their confidence in the company’s products and services in the world’s fastest growing aviation market. Deal also mentioned that Air India’s decision will support engineering and manufacturing jobs at Boeing factories and across the supply base.
