Airlines

Air India to Upgrade Fleet with Retrofit of 100 Planes, CEO Says

Air India is poised for a major overhaul as part of its ambitious transformation plan, with plans to retrofit more than 100 aircraft, including 40 wide-body planes, by 2025.

This announcement was made by the airline’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, on June 5, during the CAPA India Aviation Summit. As part of this extensive revamp, Air India will procure approximately 25,000 new aircraft seats to enhance passenger comfort and experience.

Wilson emphasized the airline’s focus on integration, growth, optimization, and customer experience, stating that “plenty of things” are in motion as part of the transformation. In line with Tata Group’s strategy to consolidate its aviation business, AIX Connect, formerly known as AirAsia India, is set to merge with Air India Express, while Vistara will integrate with Air India.

This consolidation is expected to provide “immense flexibility” for the group in offering both full-service and low-cost options, positioning Air India advantageously in the market. Wilson also highlighted Air India’s plans to deploy new aircraft exclusively on international routes, targeting destinations such as New York, San Francisco, and Dubai.

The airline aims to establish itself as a hub carrier, with key operations centered around hubs in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Notably, Air India is set to launch a new flight connecting London and Bengaluru in the near future.

Regarding industry costs, Wilson remarked that airfares have been underperforming relative to overall inflation, indicating a challenging pricing environment.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.