Air India Considers More Widebody Orders: 777X vs A350

Air India Plans Major Aircraft Order Amidst Competitive Landscape

Air India is reportedly exploring a significant multi-billion dollar order for a substantial number of widebody passenger aircraft, with both Boeing and Airbus vying for the contract. This potential order, which could involve between 30 and 40 aircraft, may include models like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X. An airline source hinted that the order could possibly expand to as many as 50 aircraft as Air India accelerates its ambitious growth strategy.

“Things should become clearer closer to the Paris Air Show in June 2025,” an airline insider shared with Reuters. However, an Air India spokesperson stated that the airline does not comment on speculation, while both Boeing and Airbus have also refrained from addressing the rumors.

Expanding Fleet to Support Growth Plans

This potential widebody aircraft order would complement Air India’s previous monumental order of 470 new airframes placed in 2023, following the Tata Group’s acquisition of the airline. Initially, this order included models from both Airbus and Boeing, and in December 2024, Air India further expanded its fleet by ordering an additional 100 Airbus aircraft.

• The December order comprised:
  • 10 widebody Airbus A350s
  • 90 narrowbody A320 Family aircraft, including A321neos

With this latest acquisition, Air India’s total orders from Airbus in 2023 increased to 350 aircraft, consisting of 40 A350s and 210 A320 Family aircraft. Additionally, the airline operates both Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft, with 10 Boeing 777Xs and 20 787 Dreamliners already on order.

Competitive Challenges in Long-Haul Market

As Air India looks to enhance its fleet, the airline faces stiff competition from international long-haul carriers and a rapidly growing domestic market. Rivals like IndiGo have recently announced long-haul services to Amsterdam and Manchester starting May 2025. IndiGo, which has 30 Airbus A350s on order, is positioning itself for swift international expansion, with options for an additional 70 aircraft.

Once revered as one of the world’s premier long-haul carriers, Air India has struggled under state ownership, allowing local competitors to gain ground. While some airlines, like Kingfisher Airlines and Jet Airways, have ceased operations, others, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, continue to thrive in the burgeoning Indian domestic market.

Retaining Aging Aircraft Amid Shortages

According to recent reports, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson indicated that global aircraft shortages are expected to persist for at least four more years, impacting supplies of engines, first and business class seats, and fuselage components. Consequently, Air India may need to retain older aircraft longer and extend the Tata Group’s five-year transformation plan.

On March 17, 2025, AeroTime reported that Air India successfully completed the first retrofit of an Airbus A320neo aircraft. This aircraft was among the 27 narrowbody planes inherited during the Tata Group takeover, and it underwent a comprehensive retrofit to align with the new Air India branding and standards. Upgrades included new seating, carpeting, curtains, and a revamped three-class cabin configuration, along with a fresh coat of paint showcasing the new Air India livery.

The refurbishment of older aircraft is part of Air India’s ambitious $400 million retrofit program, which will involve the modernization of 67 legacy aircraft, including both narrowbody and widebody planes, as the airline strategizes to retain its older fleet longer.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

As Air India navigates the complexities of the aviation market, its potential aircraft order and modernization efforts signify a strong commitment to growth and service enhancement. With the upcoming Paris Air Show in June 2025 on the horizon, industry observers and aviation enthusiasts alike will be keenly watching for developments.

Are you excited about Air India’s plans for new aircraft? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our related articles on the evolving aviation landscape and Air India’s transformation journey.