Air India to Introduce Onboard Wi-Fi and Four-Class Cabins in A350 Aircraft

New Delhi: Air India is set to enhance its international flight experience by introducing on-board Wi-Fi starting in November. This initiative is part of a broader transformation plan that includes upgrading all flights with improved soft products, retrofitting legacy aircraft, and rolling out the Airbus A350 on international routes.

Since the Tata Group took control of Air India from the government in January last year, the airline has been implementing several measures to revitalize its operations, including hiring 9,000 crew members to enhance service quality. The airline aims to become a “world-class global airline with an Indian heart,” focusing on fleet expansion, improved customer services, and enhanced operational reliability.

In addition to Wi-Fi, Air India is considering introducing four-class cabins in its A350 aircraft, pending regulatory approval, further elevating the travel experience for its passengers.

Rajesh Dogra, Air India's chief customer experience officer, stated, “The airline is working to improve passenger comfort in both domestic and international routes. With the launch of A350, there is a massive customer boost in their overall perception... Customers see this as a signal of how the new Air India is going to be.” The airline is also retrofitting its older narrow-body aircraft, with plans to complete this process by March next year.

Fleet Expansion and A350 Introduction

The A350, which was introduced in January and began operating on international routes in May, is already seeing increased occupancy rates, particularly in business class. Air India currently has six A350 aircraft, with an additional 34 expected to be delivered between 2025 and 2028.

The airline is considering introducing four-class cabins in the A350, pending regulatory approval. “Air India is working with the seat suppliers to explore having the retrofitted widebody aircraft with four class cabins subject to regulatory approvals. We will have a clear picture in a couple of months,” Dogra confirmed.

Enhancements to In-Flight Experience

In addition to enhancing in-flight offerings, Air India recently implemented a temporary solution for in-flight entertainment on its legacy Boeing aircraft by introducing a wireless device, allowing passengers to stream content on their devices. Dogra noted, “A lot of efforts have been made to launch wi-fi on board... The service should start with our A350s within one month after we receive the approvals.”

The airline is also upgrading its soft product offerings, including tableware and bedding, which will be rolled out by mid-November for US flights and by mid-March for all international routes.

Upgrading Passenger Experience with New Lounges

To further improve passenger experience, Air India is working on new lounges in Delhi, New York, and San Francisco, with additional plans for lounges in Dubai and London. “Cost will not be a constraint as we will not compromise on quality,” Dogra added.

Air India aims to solidify its position in the international market as competition increases, particularly from IndiGo, which is transitioning to a hybrid model with business class offerings. The A350 launch has already resulted in a significant increase in daily premium class bookings, according to Dogra.

From November, the A350 will operate flights from Delhi to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, with more international destinations to follow by early 2025.