Air India has announced a significant expansion of its US operations, with the introduction of its flagship A350-900 aircraft on the Delhi-New York JFK route from November 1, 2024, and on the Delhi-Newark route from January 2, 2025. move marks a major step forward in transforming the passenger experience on these important routes.
For the first time, Air India will offer Premium Economy Class on the Delhi-New York JFK and Delhi-Newark routes. The A350’s Premium Economy cabin features 24 wide seats arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration, providing extra legroom and greater comfort in a dedicated, luxurious cabin.
The A350 aircraft will feature a business class feature with 28 private suites featuring full-flat beds in a 1-2-1 configuration, direct aisle access, sliding doors for privacy and personal wardrobes. In addition, the A350 flights will showcase Air India’s new signature soft products, including updated china, tableware, glassware, linens and amenity packages designed by Ferragamo and TUMI for Business and Premium Economy guests.
Commenting on the development, Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India said, “We are encouraged by the positive guest feedback we have received regarding the domestic deployment of our A350s. This is a significant leap forward for our US operations. that underlines our commitment to continuous improvement. The new seats, in-flight entertainment systems and soft products will provide our guests with the comfort and service of the new Air India. We believe this enhanced offering will strengthen Air India’s position as a leading airline and attract travelers looking for a world-class flying experience between India and the United States.”
With the deployment of the A350, 60 percent of all Air India flights to the US will have a new or improved cabin interior. The airline has been gradually replacing its older planes on other U.S. routes with newer models, with upgraded seats and inflight entertainment systems. This includes the Boeing 777-200LR and Boeing 777-300ER, now flying on routes to San Francisco, New York JFK and Newark. Since early 2024, Air India has taken delivery of six A350-900 aircraft, with 34 more on order, including 20 A350-1000s. These aircraft have been initially deployed on domestic routes and the Delhi-Dubai route for regulatory compliance and crew familiarization. From September 1, 2024, Air India will fly the A350-900 from Delhi to London Heathrow.
Currently, Air India flies to five points in the United States: New York JFK, Newark, Washington DC, Chicago and San Francisco, with 51 weekly flights.
