Air India places order for 100 Airbus aircraft
Backed by services contract
Air India, owned by India’s Tata Group, has revealed a new order for 100 Airbus aircraft, including 10 A350 widebody models and 90 single-aisle A320 aircraft. The airline has also chosen Airbus’ Flight Hour Services-Component (FHS-C) to support its growing fleet of A350 aircraft.
This order, now included in Airbus’ 2024 orderbook, builds upon Air India’s previous orders made in 2023, which included 40 A350s and 210 A320 aircraft. As a result, Air India’s total Airbus orderbook has reached 344 aircraft, with six A350-900s already delivered.
The FHS-C services contract is designed to optimise the performance and reliability of Air India’s A350 fleet. This agreement further reinforces Airbus’ position as the largest global A350 power-by-the-hour maintenance services provider. It also complements Air India’s broader fleet modernisation efforts, part of its long-term growth strategy.
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, commented on the airline’s expansion plans: “With India’s passenger growth outpacing the global average, improving infrastructure, and a young, aspirational population, Air India is positioned to grow. These additional 100 Airbus aircraft will help us build a world-class airline and connect India to every corner of the world.”
Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus, expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing partnership, noting: “I am glad to see Air India renew its trust in Airbus, as we continue to support the success of their ‘Vihaan.AI’ transformation plan under Tata’s leadership.”
Air India commenced operations with the A350 in January 2024, marking the Indian market entry of this highly efficient widebody aircraft. The A350 is renowned for its advanced technologies, which improve fuel burn and CO₂ emissions by 25% and reduce noise by 50% compared to previous-generation aircraft.
The A321neo, part of the A320 range, offers enhanced range, performance, and fuel efficiency, with a 20% reduction in CO₂ emissions and a 50% noise reduction compared to older models. These improvements make it ideal for short- to medium-haul routes.
Airbus will provide comprehensive component services through the FHS-C agreement, including on-site stock at Delhi, access to regional spare pools, and repair and engineering services. This collaboration is expected to enhance aircraft availability and reduce maintenance costs for Air India.
As part of its continued fleet expansion, Air India’s investment in these new aircraft and services underscores its commitment to providing world-class service and staying at the forefront of global aviation.
Hero image: Air India commenced A350 operations in January 2024, marking the Indian market entry of this highly efficient widebody aircraft. Credit: Airbus
