Air India Express has officially welcomed its 51st Boeing 737-8 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet modernisation journey. The induction, which took place at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, introduces the airline’s first line-fit aircraft, custom-configured and designed by Boeing to Air India Express specifications. Scheduled to enter service in January 2026, the aircraft features an enhanced cabin environment aimed at improving passenger comfort, convenience, and overall travel experience.

A Milestone in Fleet Modernisation

The 51st B737-8 arrives directly from Boeing’s facility in Seattle, reflecting Air India Express’ ongoing efforts to modernise its fleet following its transition to the Tata Group. The airline now operates over 100 aircraft, strengthening its position as one of India’s largest Boeing operators. Alongside the new induction, 2025 also saw the addition of four A321neos, four A320neos, and three A320ceos, underlining the scale and pace of Air India Express’ expansion.

Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, highlighted the importance of this aircraft in the fleet transformation. “We are proud to welcome our 51st Boeing B737-8, the first of the fully customised line-fit aircraft, marking a significant step in Air India Express’ fleet modernisation journey. Two-thirds of the airline fleet now comprises modern B737-8s and A320/321Neo aircraft, offering better fuel efficiency and superior on-board comfort,” he said.

Singh also emphasised the airline’s expanding network. “We have expanded our network to 60 destinations, adding 12 destinations in 2025 alone. As India’s aviation market continues to evolve, Air India Express is emerging as a strong connector of New India, enhancing connectivity to and from tier-2 and tier-3 cities with a footprint spanning India, the Middle East, South East Asia, and South Asia.”

Features of the New Line-Fit Aircraft

The new Boeing 737-8 incorporates a range of cabin enhancements consistent with Air India Express’ new branding. Key features include:

• Ergonomically designed seats with comfortable cushioning and generous legroom
• Fast-charging power outlets at every seat
• Onboard ovens for hot ‘Gourmair’ meals
• Larger overhead bins for cabin baggage
• A quieter cabin environment
• Boeing’s Sky Interior with soothing mood lighting for a modern, welcoming atmosphere

In addition to introducing the new line-fit aircraft, the airline has commenced retrofitting new seats on its existing B737-8 fleet. Fifty aircraft will be upgraded to a standardised 189-seat configuration, with two aircraft already completing the retrofit, ensuring consistency across the fleet.

Brand Transformation and Cultural Connect

Alongside its fleet and product transformation, Air India Express has launched its new brand campaign, ‘Xplore More, Xpress More’, highlighting the transformative power of travel and meaningful connections it enables. The airline continues to celebrate India’s artistic and cultural diversity through its Tales of India initiative, showcasing over 50 indigenous art forms from 25 states via distinctive aircraft tail art. Inspirations for these artworks include traditional crafts and textiles such as Zardozi and Banarasi embroidery, Ikat and Paisley motifs, and Kasavu and Paithani weaves.

Operational and Service Highlights

As a Tata enterprise, Air India Express operates over 500 daily flights connecting 45 domestic and 16 international destinations. Its fleet of over 100 Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft underpins the airline’s role as a vibrant and inclusive carrier.

The airline has consistently emphasised passenger experience and Indian hospitality. Its cabin features, including ‘Gourmair’ hot meals and comfortable seats, are complemented by exclusive loyalty benefits, seamless digital journeys, and modern interiors, blending smart technology with a personal, memorable travel experience.

Air India Express’ leadership stressed the importance of delivering a travel experience that is both comfortable and culturally connected, reflecting the airline’s philosophy of making passengers feel at home while exploring destinations across India and beyond.

With the induction of its first custom-designed Boeing 737-8, Air India Express underscores its commitment to fleet modernisation, enhanced passenger experience, and network expansion, consolidating its role as a key player in India’s evolving aviation landscape.