GURUGRAM- Tata-Group-backed low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express (IX) is set to enhance its fleet as it prepares to receive 20 Airbus A320neo from Air India (AI).
Yes, I will explain it but before that remember, the Air India Express will operate a mixed fleet of Boeing 737 family jets and Airbus A320 family aircraft.
Air India Express Fleet
According to the BusinessLine report, Air India will transfer 20 aircraft to Air India Express (AIX) over a few months. With the help of more planes, the AIX will strengthen and solidify its domestic and international flights.
But, there is a small problem, Air India along with aircraft, will transfer flight and cabin crew to AIX, which will cause issues with ranks and benefits. However, the executive told BusinessLine that they are working to protect the benefits of crews that will be transferred to AIX.
But the question arises as to why the need to transfer the aircraft, and why not operate under the Air India brand. Well, Air India has two types of Airbus A320 family jets, one which has all Economy class seats, while another has two-class configurations that include Business and Economy Seats.
So to ease up the confusion and streamline the options for its passengers, Air India is taking this major step. Subsequently, it will help airlines manage their crew training with a single-type fleet.
Furthermore, the Indian FSC will retrofit the existing 40 A320s into three classes which will feature Premium Economy aircraft.
Earlier today (July 7, 2024), Air India took delivery of the first A320neo painted in a new brand livery. It is registered as VT-RTN, named after Ratan Tata.
Currently, the AIX operates flights from Tier 2 and 3 to Metro and Tier 1 cities. It has a widespread network of international flights to the Middle East.
Strong Growth
Since October 2023, the AIX has taken delivery of 24 New Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
Air India Express and AIX Connect are already in the process of merger and so far the majority of work is done.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is expected to approve the harmonized operating manuals this week. The airlines currently have separate manuals, which need to be harmonized as part of the merger process.
Pilots and crew will undergo training to familiarize themselves with the new procedures. The airlines will need to arrange for e-learning, and online instructor-led classroom training, and issue detailed circulars to the staff.
Meanwhile, expansion plans are also being implemented. The number of daily departures has increased from 350 to 380 in three months. The airline plans to fly to Dhaka (DAC) and Kathmandu (KTM) and announce several new domestic destinations.
By next March, AIX is expected to have a fleet of about 120 aircraft, comprising both Airbus and Boeing planes. Currently, over 80 planes operate under the AIX brand and are registered with AIX and AIX Connect.
“We had challenges due to cabin crew issues in May. However, the overall outlook for the year is positive, and we are targeting 40 percent capacity growth,” added an executive.
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