Air India Eyes Mega Expansion: Talks Heat Up for 300-Jet Deal with Airbus and Boeing

Image Source: Business Traveler

Air India is reportedly in advanced discussions with Airbus and Boeing to place a record-breaking order for up to 300 aircraft, including 80-100 wide-body jets. The move, part of a broader growth strategy under the Tata Group, signals the carrier’s global ambitions to expand its long-haul and domestic network reach.

Air India is in active negotiations with aerospace giants Airbus and Boeing for what could become one of the world’s largest aircraft purchase orders, potentially totaling up to 300 aircraft. The discussions, as reported by industry insiders, signify a major expansion from earlier talks for 230 aircraft, underscoring the airline’s growth trajectory under the Tata Group’s revival strategy.

The proposed deal, which includes between 80 and 100 wide-body jets suited for long-haul routes, highlights Air India’s aim to re-establish itself as a leading global carrier. This order would follow the airline’s massive 470-plane purchase announced earlier this year, solidifying its reputation as one of the most aggressive fleet modernisers in aviation.

Industry experts note that the wide-body aircraft under consideration include Airbus A350s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which would significantly boost Air India’s international operations to North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific destinations. Meanwhile, narrow-body additions from Airbus’s A320neo family and Boeing’s 737 MAX series are expected to expand domestic and regional services.

Key highlights:

Air India is in talks with Airbus (AIR.PA) and Boeing (BA.N) for a potential order of up to 300 aircraft, an expansion from its earlier 230-jet negotiations.
The deal includes 80-100 wide-body jets targeting international expansion, primarily long-haul routes.
The airline has already made headlines this year with a blockbuster 470-plane order, marking one of aviation’s largest-ever deals.
Discussions reflect Air India’s clear focus on global competitiveness post-Tata Group takeover and its objective to modernize fleet operations rapidly.
Wide-body aircraft like the A350 and 787 could strengthen Air India’s route network to the U.S., U.K., and Australia.
Negotiations are still underway, and final details will depend on pricing, delivery schedules, and manufacturing capacity.

Executives close to the matter indicate that the Tata Group intends to position Air India as a formidable full-service international airline rivaling major Gulf carriers. The expanded fleet, coupled with recent brand renewals and service quality upgrades, will help restore Air India’s prestige in global aviation markets.

Sources: Reuters, Bloomberg, The Economic Times

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