Air India is moving ahead with its long-delayed fleet modernisation by confirming its intention to order 18 narrowbody aircraft and up to 17 widebodies. The state-owned carrier's board has decided to formally shortlist the Airbus A321 and Boeing 737-900, and accept a technical committee's recommendation to acquire 18 aircraft.
The board also decided that firm orders would be placed for 10 widebodies - either A340-300s or 777-200ERs - with options for seven more. The aircraft are expected to be used for services to the USA and Europe.
Air India has been considering the purchase for years but repeatedly deferred decisions. Its board has now moved further ahead than at any other time in the past decade, giving manufacturers hope that decisions will finally be taken. Early last year, India's second state-owned carrier, Indian Airlines, said its board had selected the A320 over the 737 for its fleet modernisation.
Source: Flight International
