Air India, under the ownership of the Tata Group, has officially disclosed a landmark order for 100 Airbus aircraft, signaling a transformative phase for the airline’s operations and long-term strategy.

The order comprises 10 widebody A350 aircraft and 90 single-aisle A320 Family jets, marking a significant expansion of Air India’s fleet capabilities. Alongside this, the airline has chosen Airbus’ Flight Hour Services-Component (FHS-C) to support its burgeoning A350 fleet, enhancing maintenance and operational efficiency.

Speaking on the announcement, an Air India representative stated, “This order is a critical part of our strategy to transform Air India into a world-class airline with a modern fleet that meets the needs of today’s travelers. The A350s will enable us to compete more effectively on long-haul routes, while the A320 Family aircraft will reinforce our domestic and regional presence.”

For Airbus, this deal represents a significant vote of confidence in its aircraft and services portfolio. The A320 Family, known for its efficiency and reliability, is a preferred choice among airlines globally, while the A350 is celebrated for its cutting-edge technology, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency.

Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, remarked, “We are thrilled to partner with Air India on this transformative journey. This order highlights the versatility and efficiency of the A350 and A320 Family aircraft. With these additions, Air India will be well-equipped to serve diverse market needs while reducing its environmental footprint.”

Scherer also emphasised the significance of Air India selecting Airbus’ FHS-C, stating, “By choosing our Flight Hour Services, Air India is leveraging Airbus’ expertise to ensure the operational readiness of its growing fleet. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting airlines with innovative and reliable service solutions.”

“Airbus’ FHS-C solution will enable us to focus on delivering exceptional service to our passengers while relying on Airbus to handle the technical intricacies of component maintenance and inventory management,” said the Air India spokesperson. This strategic move is expected to enhance the airline’s reliability, improve aircraft turnaround times, and optimize operational efficiency.

As Christian Scherer aptly concluded, “This is not just an aircraft order; it is the beginning of a partnership that will elevate Air India to new heights. Together, we are setting the stage for a future where Air India becomes a beacon of innovation and excellence in global aviation.”