Air India, an iconic name in Indian aviation, has been on a transformational journey since its takeover by the Tata Group around two years ago. One of the most remarkable aspects of this revival is the effort to reinstate 100% of its ‘long-grounded’ fleet. The long-grounded fleet included a mix of Boeing 787s, 777s, and some narrowbody Airbus A320 aircraft, which had been immobilized for various reasons, including component shortages and engine issues. Now, over 95% of these aircraft have been made airworthy, with only two left to rejoin the active fleet.
This revitalization initiative not only marks a significant milestone in Air India’s resurgence but also carries substantial implications for the Indian aviation ecosystem. In this article, we delve into the specific facets of this fleet revival effort, with a focus on its implications for the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) and Aircraft Interiors sectors in India.