Air India's New Journey with A350: A Transformation in the Skies

Air India's history-making flight to London in 1948 is mirrored by the airline's modern milestone: the international debut of its A350 aircraft with its new service, 'Vista Verve'. Under new ownership by the Tata Group, Air India has introduced updated aircraft, amenities, and inflight experiences as part of its extensive transformation.

Air India's Malabar Princess created history on June 10, 1948, when it touched down in London. The 40-seater Lockheed Constellation 749A aircraft from Mumbai was the airline's first international flight. Seventy-six years later, Air India has chosen London for the debut of its flagship A350 aircraft and the new onboard service 'Vista Verve'.

The A350 is the first new aircraft type introduced by an Indian airline in over a decade. With its ageing fleet facing criticism, the new planes and onboard experiences signal the beginning of a remarkable transformation. Ownership of Air India shifted from the government to Tata Group in January 2022.

"It has not been easy to transform an organization which needed large investments in infrastructure, people, and processes," said Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India. The transformation has matured with new IT systems, aircraft, and staff enhancements. The A350's new soft products include chinaware, glassware, bedding, and updated amenity kits for business and premium economy guests.

(With inputs from agencies.)