Air India has unveiled a US$400 million retrofit programme for its Boeing 787-8 fleet, aimed at modernising interiors, upgrading avionics, and replacing
critical components to improve reliability and minimise flight disruptions. The initiative, covering 26 legacy B787-8 aircraft, is part of the airline's broader push to enhance operational performance. In an official statement, Air India said, "Air India has commenced the widebody retrofit programme for its legacy B787-8 aircraft, with the first of 26 aircraft (VT-ANT) having flown to a Boeing facility in Victorville, California (United States) in July 2025. A second aircraft is scheduled to depart for the same facility in October 2025, with both expected to return to service in December 2025." The move comes after a turbulent year for the carrier, especially with the AI 171 Ahmedabad crash, and underscores its bid to restore passenger confidence.
Big upgrade on interiors, critical components for aircraft
The retrofit programme for Air India's B787-8s, expected to be completed by mid-2027, will introduce brand-new interiors featuring a three-class configuration with Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class seats. This includes the installation of brand-new seats in each cabin, advanced inflight entertainment (IFE) systems, new carpeting, curtains, upholstery, lavatories, galleys and more - all aligned with the new Air India product and customer experience standards.
As part of a Reliability Enhancement Programme, Air India will be upgrading the avionics and other critical components of the 26 legacy B787-8 aircraft up to the latest industry standards, thus improving their reliability as well.
"The programme entails the analysis of maintenance and configuration records for these aircraft, followed by the implementation of recommended modifications based on Boeing's service information bulletins. This is intended to reduce operational disruptions for both, Air India and its customers," it said.
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Additionally, seven of the 26 B787-8s will undergo heavy, scheduled maintenance (D-checks) at Victorville, ensuring the fleet’s long-term operational excellence.
Starting in early 2027, Air India will additionally retrofit 13 of its legacy Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, aiming for completion by October 2028.
