What is so special about Air India Express’ first custom-designed Boeing aircraft?

Air India Express on December 30, 2025, inducted its 51st Boeing 737-8 aircraft at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, marking the arrival of its first fully custom-configured, line-fit aircraft from Boeing. The aircraft is the first of 140 Boeing planes ordered by the airline as part of its long-term fleet modernisation strategy.

Flown directly from Boeing’s Seattle facility, the aircraft is scheduled to enter commercial service in January 2026.

What makes this aircraft different

The newly inducted Boeing 737-8 has been designed and configured to Air India Express specifications, with several passenger-focused upgrades built directly into the aircraft during manufacturing.

Key cabin features include:

• Ergonomically designed seats with improved cushioning
• Generous legroom across the cabin
• Fast-charging power outlets at every seat
• Larger overhead bins for cabin baggage
• Onboard ovens enabling hot ‘Gourmair’ meals
• Boeing Sky Interior with mood lighting
• Reduced cabin noise for a quieter flying experience

These features aim to improve comfort, convenience, and consistency across the airline’s growing fleet.

Strengthening India’s largest Boeing fleet

With the induction of its 51st Boeing 737-8, Air India Express has further consolidated its position as India’s largest Boeing aircraft operator.

• The airline currently operates over 100 aircraft
• Two-thirds of the fleet now consists of modern Boeing 737-8s and Airbus A320/321neo aircraft
• The modern fleet offers better fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to older aircraft types

Retrofitting existing aircraft for consistency

In parallel with new inductions, Air India Express has launched a fleet-wide retrofit programme to ensure uniform passenger experience.

Retrofit highlights:

• 50 existing Boeing 737-8 aircraft to be upgraded
• Standardised 189-seat configuration across aircraft
• Two aircraft have already completed the retrofit process

This initiative is aimed at maintaining product consistency as the airline scales operations rapidly.

Network expansion powered by fleet growth

• The airline’s expanding fleet has enabled significant growth in network connectivity.
• Over 500 daily flights currently in operation
• Connectivity to 45 domestic and 16 international destinations
• Network expanded to 60 destinations
• 12 new destinations added in 2025 alone

Air India Express continues to focus on strengthening links between tier-2 and tier-3 cities and international destinations across the Middle East, South East Asia and South Asia.

New branding and cultural identity in the skies

Alongside its fleet transformation, the airline has rolled out a new brand campaign titled ‘Xplore More, Xpress More’, reflecting its focus on accessible and meaningful travel experiences.

The airline also continues its Tales of India initiative, which celebrates India’s artistic heritage through aircraft tail art.

Art forms showcased include:

• Zardozi and Banarasi embroidery
• Ikat and Paisley motifs
• Kasavu and Paithani weaves

To date, the initiative has featured over 50 indigenous art forms from 25 Indian states, making Air India Express one of the few airlines to integrate cultural storytelling into its fleet design.

Leadership view on the milestone

Managing Director Aloke Singh said the induction of the first line-fit aircraft represents a major step in the airline’s modernisation journey, highlighting improved fuel efficiency, enhanced onboard comfort, and rapid network expansion driven by fleet growth.

About Air India Express

Air India Express is a Tata enterprise operating more than 500 daily flights across India and international markets. With a focus on smart technology, modern aircraft, and Indian hospitality, the airline continues to position itself as a high-growth, customer-focused carrier in India’s evolving aviation market.