THIS Traditional Art Form Now Flies High with Air India Express's 100th Aircraft. Picture Inside

Air India Express has added its 100th aircraft, a Boeing 737-8, to its fleet. The latest Boeing 737-8 features striking ‘Chittara’ tail art inspired by Karnataka’s traditional mural painting.

The aircraft was flagged off by the Managing Director of Air India Express, Aloke Singh, at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport—its largest hub.

The airline operates over 445 flights weekly. Following the ceremony, the aircraft began its Bengaluru–Hindon route.

Each Air India Express aircraft is decorated with the airline’s unique ‘Tales of India’ tail art theme, which reflects India's diverse artistic heritage.

The aircraft features various indigenous textile motifs and traditional art forms, such as Ajrakh, Bandhani, Banarasi, Ikat, Jaapi, Jamdani, Kalamkari, Kanjeevaram, Kolam, and Warli.

In a statement, the airline noted that adding Hindon (Ghaziabad, Delhi NCR) to its network makes it the first and only carrier serving both airports in the National Capital Region.

Managing Director Aloke Singh said, "The induction of our 100th aircraft marks a defining moment in the growth and transformation journey of Air India Express. In just over three years since privatization, we have integrated and merged the LCC airlines while scaling up rapidly with a modern and fuel-efficient fleet. We’ve broadened our domestic network and deepened and expanded our Middle East and Southeast Asia routes."

He added, "Today, we have a formidable presence in the Indian market focused on tier-two and tier-three cities—emerging hotspots of the economy—playing a pivotal role in the next stage of India's aviation growth story." According to the statement, each aircraft in the expanding Air India Express fleet features a distinctive 'Tales of India' tail art theme, highlighting the country's rich artistic heritage.

"The 100th aircraft proudly continues this tradition with Chittara art from Karnataka—an intricate folk art historically practiced by the Deewaru community, symbolizing prosperity and celebration. Created using natural colors on mud-coated surfaces, Chittara reflects a deep connection to nature and heritage, showcasing the artistic legacy of the region," it added.

What is the ‘Chittara’ tail art?

The Chittara art form, originating from Karnataka, is an intricate folk art historically practiced by the Deewaru community. It symbolizes prosperity and celebration. Created using natural colors on mud-coated surfaces, Chittara reflects a deep connection to nature and heritage.