Air India has unveiled its first retrofitted Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, marking a key milestone in the airline’s ongoing transformation and fleet modernisation strategy. The aircraft (VT-ANT) is the first of 26 Dreamliners undergoing a comprehensive nose-to-tail cabin upgrade.
The retrofit, completed at Boeing’s facility in California, includes a complete interior overhaul and the introduction of a new three-class configuration—Business, Premium Economy, and Economy—bringing the aircraft in line with Air India’s latest widebody product standards.
The refreshed cabins feature 20 Business Class suites with privacy doors and fully flat beds, 25 Premium Economy seats offering enhanced comfort and space, and 205 upgraded Economy seats with improved ergonomics. All cabins are equipped with modern 4K inflight entertainment screens and enhanced connectivity options, significantly elevating the passenger experience on long-haul routes.
Beyond seating, the aircraft has undergone a full interior refresh, including new carpets, wall panels, upgraded lavatories, and a modern Cabin Service System. The exterior has also been repainted in Air India’s new livery, reflecting the airline’s evolving brand identity.
The retrofit process required over 12,800 manhours and extensive material upgrades, underscoring the scale of the project. According to CEO & MD Campbell Wilson, this marks a “significant milestone” in Air India’s transformation journey, with 25 more Boeing 787 aircraft set to undergo similar upgrades.
For the travel trade, the move strengthens Air India’s competitiveness in the premium long-haul segment while ensuring a more consistent onboard experience across its widebody fleet.
