Air India’s Final Boeing 747 Up for Auction in Mumbai
Air India to Auction Iconic Boeing 747: A Historic Opportunity for Aviation Enthusiasts
MUMBAI – In a significant event for aviation aficionados, Tata Group-owned Air India is set to conduct an online forward auction for its last remaining Boeing 747 aircraft (Registration: VT-ESO) on May 6, 2025. This auction, managed by mjunction, will take place at the Air India Limited facility in Mumbai (BOM) and marks a noteworthy milestone in the airline’s history.
The Boeing 747, known for its distinctive hump and wide-body design, has been a vital part of Air India’s fleet for over three decades. Interested bidders are encouraged to prepare early, as they must submit required documentation at least three days prior to the one-day inspection opportunity.
Key Details of the Air India Boeing 747 Auction
The auction is scheduled to begin at 9:00 PM on May 6, 2025, with bids remaining valid for 30 calendar days. Prospective bidders can inspect the aircraft on May 5, 2025, during designated time slots:
- 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
To participate in the inspection, bidders must request airport pass issuance from Air India Limited by April 30, 2025. The documentation requirements include:
- A copy of the Aadhaar card (original required during the visit)
- Photographs of personnel attending the inspection
- A company letter requesting an export entry pass (original required during the visit)
- Indian passport (original and copy; not mandatory for all auctions)
The auction will proceed on an “AS IS WHERE IS BASIS,” with a tolerance of approximately ±10% on quantity, and delivery is expected within 60 calendar days from the issuance of the delivery order.
Historical Significance of the Boeing 747
The Boeing 747 VT-ESO holds immense historical value for Air India, being the last of its kind in the airline’s fleet. This aircraft, auctioned under Forward Auction number M/30210320, has served as a flagship for Air India, once operating on prestigious international routes and symbolizing the airline’s global presence.
The 747 has long been celebrated for revolutionizing commercial air travel and remains an iconic figure in aviation history. This auction presents a unique opportunity for aviation enthusiasts, museums, and aircraft recycling companies to acquire a piece of this legacy.
Understanding the Auction Process and Delivery Logistics
The auction will employ an “ENGLISH NO TIES AUCTION” format with a minimum duration of 60 minutes. An auto-extension feature of 3 minutes is available if bids are placed near the closing time.
Following a successful bid, the buyer will need to handle the loading and transportation of the aircraft components. Strict inspection rules apply, meaning that bidders will not be allowed to inspect the aircraft after the auction concludes, and photography during the inspection is prohibited.
This auction not only marks the end of an era for Air India but also serves as a rare opportunity for those looking to own a piece of aviation history.
For more details on the auction process or information about Air India’s fleet, readers can visit Air India’s official website or check out Indian Aviation News.
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