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

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.