Air India to Introduce 26 Upgraded Aircraft by 2026

GURUGRAM- Air India (AI) has announced plans to add 26 new aircraft to its fleet by 2026, focusing on revitalizing key routes such as Ahmedabad (AMD) and London Gatwick (LGW). The airline’s CEO emphasizes significant upgrades in operations and services despite a steady overall capacity.

Visible enhancements across Air India’s product and operations are on the horizon, even as the airline balances incoming deliveries, aircraft returns, and ongoing retrofits.

The airline aims to undergo notable changes in both its wide-body and narrow-body fleets, supported by retrofit initiatives, new aircraft additions, and fleet retirements.

According to a report from Deccan Herald, Air India is navigating a structured transformation amidst ongoing supply chain delays and the impact of a recent crash.

Air India Fleet in 2026

According to Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, the year 2026 will witness “very visible change” through the introduction of 26 new aircraft and upgrades to a majority of the wide-body and narrow-body fleets.

However, the overall fleet capacity will not significantly increase as several aircraft will be retired during this period.

Currently, the airline manages nearly 300 aircraft, encompassing around 187 under Air India and more than 110 for Air India Express, with its wide-body fleet featuring 22 Boeing 777s and 32 Boeing 787s.

Wilson indicated that several leased Boeing 777s will be returned, along with the retirement of three owned 777s in 2026.

Although Air India plans to introduce its first Boeing 787-9 from a larger 570 aircraft order before Christmas, the most noticeable growth is expected to happen in 2027 and 2028.

While Air India was supposed to have received 28 new aircraft by now, supply chain challenges have delayed deliveries of “white-tail” aircraft initially designated for other airlines.

In 2026, the airline anticipates receiving six wide-body aircraft, including Boeing 787-9s and Airbus A350-1000s, as well as 20 narrow-body aircraft. Out of the total 570 aircraft ordered, 524 are yet to be delivered.

Wilson highlighted that the number of aircraft at the beginning and end of the year would be nearly the same, reflecting a careful balance of new arrivals, lease returns, and retrofitting schedules.

Retrofit Progress

Air India’s wide-body retrofit initiative is set to become more prominent in 2026. The first two upgraded Boeing 787-8 aircraft are expected back in service by February, with a goal of completing two to three retrofits monthly.

By the end of 2026, approximately two-thirds of the Boeing 787 fleet should be upgraded, with full completion expected by mid-2027.

Delays in retrofitting are primarily caused by a shortage of premium seats, a problem affecting the industry globally.

Conversely, about 83% of the narrow-body fleet is already upgraded. Due to slow delivery of new Airbus and Boeing aircraft, Air India will retain 17 older narrow-body aircraft initially set for retirement.

The integration of Vistara, which merged with Air India in November 2024, will see new Air India branding and interior modifications rolling out this month.

This transition aims to unify the Tata Group’s aviation branding, ensuring product consistency across the network as Vistara planes undergo maintenance and upgrade.

Impact of the June 12 Crash

The June 12 incident involved a Boeing 787-8 on a flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, resulting in a tragic loss of 260 lives, including passengers, crew, and individuals on the ground. Only one passenger survived.

Wilson confirmed that 95% of the families affected have received interim compensation, with ongoing long-term support planned by the airline.

Market Trends, Performance, and Loyalty

Air India operates an average of one flight departure every 70 seconds, showcasing its extensive reach both nationally and internationally.

Wilson noted a temporary decline in U.S.-bound travel demand due to airspace constraints, extended flight durations, and visa-related challenges. However, this trend is expected to change.

The Maharaja Club loyalty program will soon allow customers to redeem points on Air India Express, further expanding options across the airline’s network.

Future Outlook

Air India anticipates substantial growth starting in 2027 and 2028 as fleet additions increase and retrofit initiatives wrap up.

With 524 aircraft still outstanding from its order of 570, the airline is gearing up for a major expansion phase once supply chain constraints ease and current fleet transitions stabilize.