Air India has unveiled new cabin, logo, and aircraft livery as part of a multi-million dollar transformation of the former national carrier.
“Our transformative new brand reflects an ambition to make Air India a world-class airline serving guests from around the globe, and that represents a new India proudly on the global stage,” said Campbell Wilson, Air India CEO & MD.
Air India has also introduced four all-new cabins, ranging from First class to Economy.
The new four-class configuration is expected to debut on the carrier’s Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in the second half of 2024. This will be followed by the refurbishment of the 787 Dreamliners.
Air India’s New First Class
Air India’s Boeing 777s will feature a single row of First Class, in a 1-2-1 configuration.
- Sliding privacy door
- Larger high-definition in-flight entertainment screen with Bluetooth audio
- Wireless device charging capabilities
The new First Class seats will be based on the Safran Unity seat, the same found in the carrier’s Business Class.
However, Air India hasn’t confirmed if other wide-body aircraft, including the new A350 and 787s, will feature the First Class cabin or not.
Air India’s New Business Class
Air India has opted for the Safran Unity seat in their Business Class, featuring a 1-2-1 staggered configuration.
- Direct aisle access
- Privacy door
- High-definition in-flight entertainment screen with Bluetooth audio
- Wireless device charging capabilities
The staggered configuration will see certain rows having seats closer to the aisle, while others are closer to the windows.
Air India’s New Premium Economy and Economy Class
Air India’s long-haul fleet will feature Premium Economy seats in a 2-4-2 configuration. Whereas, the Boeing 777s will feature the new Economy seats in a 3-4-3 configuration.
While the First and Business Class seats boast neutral finishes, the Premium Economy and Economy seats sport a vibrant red color, adding a touch of personality to them.
Although specifics about the Premium Economy product remain limited, it’s known that the seats will feature seat-back in-flight screens and leg rests.
“The new Air India is bold, confident, and vibrant, but also warm and deeply rooted to its rich history and traditions that make Indian hospitality a global benchmark for standards in service.”
Campbell Wilson, Air India CEO & MD.
New Logo and Aircraft Livery
Air India has also unveiled its new logo and aircraft livery as part of the transformation. Traveler’s will begin to see the new logo starting in December 2023, when Air India’s first Airbus A350 will enter the fleet in the new livery.
In the new livery, the airline’s name, “AIR INDIA,” is prominently displayed in bold letters, symbolizing the renewed confidence and global presence of Air India while maintaining its Indian essence.
This bold branding is replicated on the underbelly as well, enabling recognition from below during low-altitude flights. The underbelly and engines are painted red, while the underbelly also features a distinctive gold frame.
Mr. Wilson stated that all of the airline’s widebody aircraft will be refurbished with the new livery by 2025.
Air India’s Maharaja Mascot
As part of its latest transformation, Air India will not be retiring its iconic Maharaja mascot altogether. Instead, the airline will be moving beyond the Maharaja while retaining the elements of the mascot that represent hospitality and service.
This means that the Maharaja may still be seen on Air India’s planes and in its marketing materials, but he will be updated to reflect the airline’s new identity.
Images via Air India