BENGALURU- Tata-owned Air India (AI) first Airbus A350 makes history with its maiden flight from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (BLR) to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM).
According to the schedule, flight AI589 took off from Bengaluru at around 7:05 am and landed safely in Mumbai at 8:50 am.
Inside A350
The airshow held in Hyderabad on Thursday marked the inaugural public unveiling of Air India’s new flagship.
Although initially intended for the Moscow-based operator, Air India has taken its time to personalize the aircraft, erasing any traces of Aeroflot colors. The A350-900 accommodates 316 passengers in a three-class configuration: 28 in business, 24 in premium economy, and 264 in economy.
Onboard, the product and experience have been meticulously crafted to convey a premium carrier image, a positioning not commonly associated with Air India in recent times.
The business class cabin is outfitted with the Collins Aerospace Horizon Premier seat, originally intended for Aeroflot. Variations of these seats can also be found on certain widebody aircraft of Turkish Airlines and Air Canada.
The seat, or suite, features sliding doors to align with the prevailing trend of heightened privacy. It includes a 79-inch fully flat bed, a personal wardrobe, and direct aisle access for every passenger.
The seats boast ample storage for personal items, offer five recline modes, and feature a spacious 21-inch screen.
Air India A350 Flight
The Indian FSC’s first Airbus A350 flight is boarded by renowned aviation professionals, avgeeks, and regular passengers.
“The A350 marks a significant transformation for Air India,” stated Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India.
“It will not only enhance our passenger experience but also unlock new routes and expansion opportunities. Alongside the comprehensive interior refit of our existing widebody aircraft, set to commence in mid-2024, this fleet and product upgrade stands as a crucial element in positioning Air India among the top ranks of global aviation.”
Fitted with efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the Airbus A350 ensures peak performance, environmental advantages, and enhanced passenger comfort.
With an impressive range of up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 km), it enables non-stop flights from India to various destinations in the United States, Canada, and Australia.
The initial A350 for Air India, bearing registration VT-JRA, marks the commencement of the delivery of the airline’s order for 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, with an additional five expected to be delivered by March 2024.
Air India’s firm commitment to Airbus comprises an order for 250 new aircraft, which encompasses 20 units of the A350-1000 as well.
Three Class Configuration
Luxe Business: The business class on Air India’s A350-900 showcases 28 private suites arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing each passenger with direct aisle access and sliding privacy doors.
These suites effortlessly transform into full-sized beds at the touch of a button, offering travelers their own secluded spaces in the sky. Each suite is equipped with a personal wardrobe and ample storage for electronic devices, amenities, and shoes.
A conveniently located mirror caters to the diverse needs of every traveler. The 21-inch HD touchscreen and video handset deliver an immersive entertainment experience, complemented by universal A/C and USB-A power outlets to keep mobile and electronic devices charged.
Upscale Premium Economy: Air India’s A350-900 features an exclusive Premium Economy cabin with 24 spacious seats arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration.
Providing generous legroom with 38 inches of seat pitch, 18.5 inches of seat width, and an 8-inch recline, each seat is equipped with a 4-way adjustable headrest and leg rest, including a foot paddle for personalized comfort. A 13.3-inch HD touchscreen and universal AC and USB-A power outlets enhance the in-flight experience.
Comfortable Economy: The A350-900’s economy class accommodates 264 seats in a 3-4-3 configuration. Each seat offers 31 inches of seat pitch, 17.5 inches of seat width, and a 6-inch recline.
With a 4-way adjustable headrest and a 12-inch HD touchscreen, this economy class ensures a comfortable and stylish flying experience that delivers excellent value for money.
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