MUMBAI- Airbus has potentially secured a significant order from Air India (AI) for 85 additional aircraft, sources told Bloomberg News. The deal, finalized in September, includes 75 A320neo family single-aisle planes and 10 A350 wide-body jets.
This expansion aligns with Air India’s ambitious growth strategy in India’s rapidly expanding aviation market.
Air India Airbus Order
Air India’s order contributes to Airbus’s strong performance in September. The European planemaker reported delivering 50 aircraft and booking 235 new orders last month, including 85 from an unidentified buyer, now believed to be Air India.
This latest purchase builds upon Air India’s previous order of 470 aircraft placed in February, split between Airbus and Boeing.
European plane maker secures major orders in September, with lessor CDB Aviation ordering 80 single-aisle jets and Philippines’ Cebu Pacific (5J) firming 70 aircraft.
Air India has already placed a historic order for 250 Airbus aircraft last year. The order includes 210 A320 family aircraft and 40 A350 aircraft.
Air India has already received the delivery of six Airbus A350-900s and more are likely to join fleet in coming years.
Sources indicate to Reuters that Air India’s fleet expansion strategy extends beyond Airbus. The carrier reportedly engages in discussions with Boeing for a potential supplementary order, signaling a comprehensive approach to its fleet modernization and growth plans.
Air India’s Chief Commercial and Transformation Officer Nipun Aggarwal revealed the airline secured 370 options and purchase rights from Airbus and Boeing, supplementing the main order.
Aggarwal, who spearheaded confidential negotiations in London, disclosed this information after the initial announcement. While Air India previously confirmed 70 Boeing jet options, it did not provide details on Airbus options.
Sad Demise of Ratan Tata
This event is coinciding with the national carrier’s mourning of Ratan Tata, the former chairman of parent Tata Group.
Tata, a renowned business and aviation pioneer, passed away at 86, leaving a significant legacy in India’s corporate and aviation sectors.
The timing of the order’s disclosure adds a poignant note to Air India’s expansion plans, highlighting the continuity of Tata’s vision for the airline.
Ratan Tata, who succeeded J.R.D. Tata as the conglomerate’s chairman in 1991, led the group for over two decades, shaping its growth and international presence.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
