Air India (AI) is breathing new life into its legacy Boeing 777 widebody aircraft, starting with a fresh cabin revamp for its first aircraft under this interim upgrade plan. The first of 13 legacy Boeing 777s, registered as VT-ALK, returned from Singapore on Wednesday after a 52-day interior refurbishment, bringing a revitalized cabin experience to passengers.
The overhaul, though not a full-scale retrofit, introduces new seat upholstery, fresh carpeting, repainted panels, and upgraded lavatories, aligning the aircraft’s interiors with Air India’s new brand aesthetics. The move is part of an interim enhancement program that aims to improve passenger experience on some of AI’s most lucrative ultra long-haul routes to the U.S. and Europe.
A Step Towards Full Fleet Modernization
While this cabin refresh offers a visual and comfort upgrade, the airline’s larger, more extensive retrofit plan—including full seat replacements and new in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems—has been pushed back to 2026. Originally slated to begin in 2023, the delay means passengers will have to wait longer for a fully modernized experience on these aircraft.
However, Air India is not holding back on upgrades across its fleet. A full-scale retrofit for its Boeing 787 Dreamliners is set to roll out this month, with the first of these 27 aircraft returning to service by October 2025. The airline plans to retrofit two to three B787s per month until the entire fleet is upgraded.
A New Era for Air India
Under Tata Group’s ownership, Air India is aggressively pursuing a modern, premium travel experience, both through interim cabin upgrades and long-term fleet modernization. While the full transformation of its Boeing 777s is delayed, the ongoing enhancements signal a strong commitment to elevating passenger comfort and brand identity.
With these cabin makeovers, travelers can expect a refreshed in-flight experience, even as they wait for the complete transformation that’s set to roll out in the coming years.
