Air India has confirmed that its newly arrived Airbus A350 will enter commercial service on January 22 2024.
The new widebody aircraft will initially be operating domestically for crew familiarisation, followed by long-haul flying to international destinations.
The carrier has confirmed that the A350 will commence domestic operations with the first flight taking place from Bengaluru to Mumbai.
A New Chapter in Domestic Operations
The Airbus A350 will initially spread its wings in the domestic skies, serving as a platform for crew familiarization.
The inaugural flight is set to take off from Bengaluru, connecting the vibrant city to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai.
Following its domestic debut, the A350 will continue regional operations, with the aircraft operating flights from Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
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The arrival of the first Airbus A350 marked a pivotal moment in Air India’s ongoing transformation narrative. The airline, known for its rich history, welcomed the first of 20 A350-900 aircraft adorned in the new livery last month.
The delivery flight from Toulouse, operated using a special call sign AI350, was welcomed by Air India representatives.
Air India’s Senior Commander Capt. Monika Batra Vaidya, who is among the first few Indian pilots to be trained on A350, was on board as an observer.
Pioneering Indian Aviation
Air India has a history of pioneering achievements in Indian aviation. With the induction of the A350, the airline once again leads the way, becoming the first in the country to operate this state-of-the-art widebody aircraft.
This echoes Air India’s earlier feat of being the first Indian airline to embrace the Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet in 2012.
A350 Configuration
The Indian airline’s A350-900 boasts a three-class cabin configuration, offering a total of 316 seats meticulously designed by Collins Aerospace.
Business Class travelers can indulge in 28 private suites featuring full-flat beds, while Premium Economy offers 24 seats with extra legroom and unique features.
Economy Class, with its 264 spacious seats, ensures a comfortable journey for all passengers.
Every seat on the Airbus A350 is equipped with the latest-generation Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system and HD screens.
This commitment to cutting-edge technology enhances the overall flying experience, setting Air India apart in the competitive aviation landscape.
Conclusion
The recent arrival of the first Airbus A350-900 is just the beginning of Air India’s ambitious plans. With 20 more A350-900s on order and five scheduled for delivery by March 2024, the airline is poised for a transformative year.
Air India holds firm orders for 250 new aircraft, including the 20 A350-1000s, driving its merger and airline transformation process.
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