Where Does Air India Fly its Airbus A350s?

Air India is an airline in transition.

In recent years, Air India has embarked on a transformative journey following its acquisition by Tata Group in January 2022. This historic move marked the airline’s return to Tata ownership after nearly seven decades, sparking renewed hope for a revival of the brand. Under Tata’s leadership, Air India began a vigorous modernization process to redefine itself as a world-class airline, moving away from the challenges and inefficiencies that had tarnished its reputation in previous years.

Just this week it completed the merger with Vistara which will significantly grow its airline.

One of the most significant steps in Air India’s revival strategy has been its investment in a new fleet. Among these investments is the acquisition of Airbus A350 aircraft, a move designed to bring Air India’s product in line with global standards and improve operational efficiency. The A350s promise enhanced passenger comfort, reduced fuel consumption, and lower carbon emissions, aligning with Tata’s vision for a sustainable and competitive airline.

Air India has also focused on refining its customer experience by improving in-flight services, upgrading lounges, and enhancing overall service quality. The airline’s rebranding efforts, coupled with a commitment to punctuality and reliability, are geared toward restoring public confidence and elevating its status in the international aviation community. With a modern fleet, upgraded services, and Tata Group’s backing, Air India is well-positioned to reclaim its legacy and compete with top carriers on key international routes.

Air India’s Airbus A350 Fleet

Air India ordered the Airbus A350 in 2023 as part of a larger order for aircraft spread across Airbus and Boeing products. The first A350 aircraft was delivered in December 2023.

Deliveries of A350 aircraft to Air India were able to be fast tracked thanks to airframes originally intended for Aeroflot being withheld and reassigned delivery slots to the Indian airline.

Significantly, the A350 was the first aircraft to wear the new Air India livery, showing its importance in the process of reimagining the airline for the future.

Initially the aircraft were used on domestic routes from January 2024, to aid in crew training and familiarity, before the airline began to introduce it to international services.

As the most modern long-haul, wide-body aircraft in Air India’s fleet, the airline is keen for the A350 to become a flagship to attract international passengers to use the airline.

The airline at present has six of the A350-900 variant, with 19 more on order. It also has 25 A350-1000s on order.

Where does Air India’s A350 Fly?

At the time of writing, Air India is flying its Airbus A350s on the following routes:

• Delhi – Bengaluru
• Delhi – Hyderabad
• Delhi – London Heathrow
• Delhi – Mumbai
• Delhi – New York JFK

As more A350s are delivered, Air India is expected to introduce the type to more of its international network, including more destinations in Asia, Europe and North America.

Domestic routes are not expected to continue into 2025.

Have you flown on Air India’s Airbus A350? What was it like? Leave a comment below!