Air India deployed its newest Boeing 787-9 aircraft on the Mumbai-London Heathrow route on Wednesday, marking the debut of the airline's latest long-haul cabin product and introducing Premium Economy seats on this key international sector for the first time. The aircraft, featuring all-new interiors developed exclusively for Air India and installed directly on Boeing's production line, operates flights AI131 and AI130 between Mumbai and London Heathrow.
Part of Fleet Modernization Programme
The deployment is part of Air India's ongoing fleet modernisation programme as the Tata Group-owned carrier seeks to upgrade its international travel experience and strengthen its presence on high-demand global routes. The new Boeing 787-9 is the first line-fit Dreamliner purpose-built for the airline under its transformation programme.
Three-Class Configuration
With the induction of this aircraft, passengers on the route now have the option of choosing between Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins. Air India's second daily Mumbai-London Heathrow service continues to be operated using the upgraded Boeing 777-300ER aircraft equipped with First Class cabins. The new Boeing 787-9 features a three-class configuration with 30 Business Class suites, 28 Premium Economy seats, and 238 Economy seats.
Enhanced Cabin Features
The Business Class cabin offers direct aisle access, fully flat beds stretching 79 inches, wireless charging facilities, additional storage space, and 17-inch 4K QLED HDR entertainment screens. Premium Economy passengers enjoy wider seats in a 2-3-2 configuration with a 38-inch seat pitch, increased recline, adjustable headrests and leg rests, along with 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR screens. In Economy Class, redesigned seats provide long-haul comfort with 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and integrated holders for personal electronic devices.
Inflight Entertainment and Amenities
The airline has introduced the Thales AVANT Up inflight entertainment platform across all cabins, featuring high-definition touchscreens, Bluetooth audio connectivity, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, power outlets, and an upgraded user interface. Passengers can pair their personal Bluetooth headphones with the system, which offers access to more than 3,000 hours of content. The aircraft also features mood lighting inspired by Indian wellness traditions, upgraded meal offerings, redesigned amenity kits, new tableware, and enhanced bedding.
UK Market Significance
The United Kingdom remains one of Air India's largest overseas markets, driven by strong demand from business travellers, tourists, and the Indian diaspora. The airline currently operates 57 weekly non-stop flights between India and the UK, connecting Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Amritsar with London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and Birmingham. Air India said its UK network also offers onward connectivity through its Indian hubs to destinations across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
