Air India’s much-publicised fleet refurbishment programme has hit yet another delay, with the airline now targeting October 2028 to complete upgrades to its widebody aircraft. The project, part of a $400 million modernization plan, was originally intended to be finished within five years, but global supply chain issues have forced a revised schedule.

The refurbishment covers both Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Boeing 777 aircraft, with plans to install new seats, improve cabin interiors, upgrade inflight entertainment systems, and refresh lavatories. Two Dreamliners have already entered the retrofit process, with the first expected to return to service by December 2025.

Airline CEO Campbell Wilson attributed the delays primarily to seat supplier shortages and unexpected contractual challenges, including one major supplier pulling out mid-project. These disruptions, compounded by component shortages in the global aviation supply chain, have slowed progress despite early planning efforts.

The narrowbody fleet upgrade, involving A320neo aircraft, is on a faster track and is expected to conclude by September 2025. However, the widebody programme is far more complex, involving extensive cabin reconfiguration and certification processes. The Boeing 777 retrofits, which will feature an updated three-class configuration including premium economy, are now scheduled to begin in early 2027.

Industry analysts warn that prolonged delays could impact Air India’s competitive positioning on long-haul routes, particularly against Gulf carriers and other international rivals offering newer, more comfortable cabins. Premium passengers, who are critical to profitability on these routes, may gravitate toward competitors if upgrades are not delivered promptly.

Nevertheless, the refurbishment remains a central pillar of Air India’s broader transformation strategy under Tata Group ownership. Beyond aesthetics, the programme aims to improve operational reliability, align product offerings with international standards, and enhance brand perception in key global markets.

The coming months will test the airline’s ability to manage complex logistical challenges while maintaining service quality. Success will hinge on aligning supplier commitments, accelerating work on aircraft already in the pipeline, and minimising the gap between customer expectations and on-board experience.

If completed as envisioned, the widebody retrofit will mark a turning point in Air India’s bid to reclaim its position as a preferred choice for premium international travel. But for now, the journey toward that goal remains turbulent.