GURUGRAM –The resurgence of Air India (AI) under the leadership of the Tata Group is a story of transformation, ambition, and careful planning. Since its acquisition in January 2022, the airline has embarked on an extraordinary journey in a move to reclaim its position as a leading global carrier.
With a current fleet of 205 aircraft and orders for 474 more, the Indian flag carrier is reshaping its operations after the recent merger with Vistara, to align with the growing demands.
Moreover, the year 2025 marks a significant milestone in this transformation, as the airline will not only expand its fleet but also strategically deploy new aircraft to key routes, including some exciting new destinations.
Photo: Clément AlloingAir India Fleet Overview (January 2025)
Air India’s current fleet comprises a mix of narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, catering to domestic, regional, and intercontinental routes. Below is the summary of its current fleet, along with key updates for each aircraft type:
| Airbus A319-100 | 6 | Scheduled for retirement, replaced by the A320neo fleet. |
| Airbus A320-200 | 4 | Used on high-demand domestic routes; some transferred to Air India Express. |
| Airbus A320neo | 57 | Key to domestic and short-haul international operations. |
| Airbus A321-200 | 13 | Operates on high-capacity regional routes. |
| Airbus A321neo | 6 | Part of a larger 210-aircraft order, deployed on medium-haul routes. |
| Airbus A321LR | 4 | Offers extended range, ideal for Southeast Asia and the Middle East. |
| Airbus A350-900 | 6 | Acquired from Aeroflot; used on premium routes like Delhi-New York and Delhi-Newark. |
| Boeing 777-200LR | 8 | Refurbished for ultra-long-haul flights, including North America. |
| Boeing 777-300ER | 13 | Handles high-demand intercontinental routes. |
| Boeing 787-8 | 23 | Reliable for medium- and long-haul international services. |
| Boeing 787-9 | 6 | Expanding capacity on high-demand routes. |
| Total Fleet | 205 |
Photo: Utkarsh Thakkar (Vimanspotter)Fleet Modernization and Aircraft Orders
Air India’s order for 474 new aircraft – the largest in the airline’s history – includes a mix of narrow-body and wide-body planes, reflecting a strategic focus on both domestic and international markets.
| Airbus A320neo | 90 | Enhancing domestic and regional market coverage. |
| Airbus A321neo | 210 | Expanding medium-haul capabilities, ideal for regional and international routes. |
| Airbus A350-900 | 19 | For long-haul premium routes; initial aircraft acquired from Aeroflot. |
| Airbus A350-1000 | 25 | Targets ultra-long-haul flights, including new non-stop services to North America. |
| Boeing 777-9 | 10 | Adds capacity and efficiency to flagship international routes. |
| Boeing 787-9 | 20 | Complements existing Dreamliner fleet for expanding long-haul operations. |
Photo: Sandeep/ATC spotterExciting New Destinations, Network Expansion
Air India is expecting to expand its international network with five new destinations in 2025:
- Manila (MNL) and Jakarta (CGK): Regular flights to these Southeast Asian destinations will commence in early 2025, fulfilling the growing demand from business and leisure travelers.
- Dallas (DFW) and Los Angeles (LAX): Non-stop flights to these major U.S. destinations are planned for late 2025, capitalizing on the ultra-long-haul capabilities of the Boeing 777-200LR and Airbus A350.
- One Unannounced Destination: A yet-to-be-revealed destination is under development and will be announced later.
These routes, supported by the airline’s hubs in Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bengaluru (BLR), aim to connect underserved markets while solidifying Air India’s global presence.
International Network Expansion
- North America: Expanding non-stop services to cities like Dallas, Seattle, and Vancouver using the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777s.
- Europe: Strengthening connections to hubs like London, Paris, and Frankfurt, while exploring secondary destinations such as Manchester and Vienna.
- Asia-Pacific: Increasing flights to Australia and adding routes to Southeast Asian cities like Jakarta and Manila using the A321LR and A321neo.
- Middle East and Africa: Targeting Indian expatriate populations with higher frequencies to Gulf countries and exploring opportunities in Africa.
Photo: avgeekwithlens/ Harsh TekriwalAir India Fleet Deployments
Narrow-Body Aircraft
- Domestic and Regional Routes: The Airbus A320neo and A321neo are the backbone of domestic operations, connecting Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and dominating popular routes like Delhi-Mumbai. The A321LR, acquired from Vistara supports medium-haul routes to Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
- Fleet Retirement: Older Airbus A319s and A320-200s will be phased out and replaced by fuel-efficient A320neo aircraft. Some older aircraft are transitioning to Air India Express, boosting its low-cost offerings.
Wide-Body Aircraft
- Airbus A350s on Ultra-Premium Routes:
- Following its introduction on the Delhi-New York (JFK) route in November 2024, the A350-900 is now deployed on the Delhi-Newark (EWR) route as of January 2, 2025.
- The A350-1000 will soon join the fleet to enable non-stop ultra-long-haul services, including potential routes to Dallas and Los Angeles.
- Enhanced passenger amenities, such as private business class suites and premium economy, position the A350 as a game-changer for Air India.
- Boeing 777 Fleet on High-Demand Routes:
- The refurbished 777-200LR and 777-300ER fleets continue to support high-demand markets, including North America, Europe, and the Gulf region.
- Dreamliners for Medium- and Long-Haul Operations:
- The 787-8 and 787-9 remain integral for routes to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania, offering operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
Photo: CHEN AI | JetPhotosTata Group’s Vision for Air India
Since taking over Air India, the Tata Group has focused on rebuilding the airline’s global reputation. Key strategies include:
- Fleet Renewal: Upgrading to modern, fuel-efficient aircraft to reduce costs and improve reliability.
- Network Growth: Expanding both domestic and international reach with new routes and strategic alliances, including codeshare agreements with Singapore Airlines.
- Service Enhancements: Refurbished cabins, premium amenities, and new inflight experiences underscore Air India’s commitment to passenger satisfaction.
Photo: Air IndiaBottom Line
Air India is expecting a new era of growth and innovation in 2025 with an expanding fleet, new routes, and a refreshed vision. By leveraging its modernized aircraft and strategic network expansion, the airline is reclaiming its status as a leader in the global aviation market.
In conclusion, from ultra-long-haul flights to North America to new connections in Southeast Asia, the Maharaja is charting an ambitious course to connect India with the world.
Featured Image By Siddh Dhuri | Mumbai Planes
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Air India New Flights, Routes and Destinations in 2025 | Exclusive
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