Former Jet Airways B777 Leaves Mumbai After 7 Years, Ending an Iconic Aviation Era

For years, the sight of a Jet Airways Boeing 777-300ER at Mumbai Airport represented India’s growing presence in long-haul international aviation. The aircraft was once a symbol of premium air travel, connecting passengers to destinations across the world with Jet Airways’ signature service.

Now, that familiar blue-and-gold widebody silhouette has finally disappeared from Mumbai’s skyline. A former Jet Airways Boeing 777-300ER, registered VT-JEM, departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on August 3, 2026, marking the end of an emotional chapter for the airline’s once-famous widebody fleet.

Final Departure From Mumbai After Years of Storage

The aircraft, which had remained parked at Mumbai Airport for more than seven years after Jet Airways shut down operations, completed its final ferry flight from Mumbai to Tel Aviv, Israel.

For many aviation enthusiasts and former passengers, the departure was more than just a routine aircraft movement. It was a farewell to an aircraft that had become a familiar part of Mumbai’s aviation identity.

The Boeing 777-300ER was transferred for a new chapter in its life, moving from passenger service toward conversion into a dedicated cargo aircraft.

From Jet Airways Flagship to Cargo Freighter

The aircraft originally operated under Jet Airways as part of its international long-haul fleet. After the airline suspended operations on April 17, 2019, several aircraft remained grounded across Indian airports, including VT-JEM.

After spending approximately seven years and four months parked in Mumbai, the aircraft was moved for conversion work. It will now undergo transformation into a freighter aircraft by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for future cargo operations.

The aircraft was operated under a new registration arrangement for the ferry flight, transitioning to 2-TJEM, and was transferred to Ace Aviation / Challenge Airlines.

The End of Jet Airways’ Boeing 777 Era

Jet Airways’ Boeing 777-300ER fleet was once considered one of the airline’s most prestigious assets, representing its ambitions in global aviation. These aircraft played a key role in connecting Mumbai and Delhi with major international destinations.

The departure of VT-JEM marks the final goodbye to Jet Airways’ passenger widebody era. While the aircraft will continue flying in a new role, its departure closes a nostalgic chapter for aviation lovers who remember the golden years of Jet Airways.