Air India has introduced its newest Boeing 787-9 aircraft on flights between Mumbai and London Heathrow, bringing its latest onboard product and Premium Economy cabin to one of its key international routes.
The airline said flights AI131/AI130, which began operating with the new aircraft from July 1, are the first Boeing 787s built specifically for Air India, featuring cabin interiors installed directly on Boeing's production line.
The aircraft are configured with 30 Business Class suites, 28 Premium Economy seats and 238 Economy seats, introducing Premium Economy on the Mumbai-London Heathrow service and offering customers a wider choice of travel options.
Business Class features fully flat beds, direct aisle access, wireless charging and 17-inch 4K entertainment screens, while the new Premium Economy cabin offers a 2-3-2 seating layout with wider seats, increased legroom and 13.3-inch entertainment screens. Economy passengers will also benefit from redesigned seats and upgraded inflight entertainment.
Across all cabins, passengers will have access to the Thales AVANT Up entertainment system with Bluetooth audio connectivity, USB-A and USB-C charging ports and AC power outlets. The airline has also introduced mood lighting inspired by Indian wellness traditions, alongside refreshed menus, premium tableware, redesigned amenity kits and upgraded bedding.
Air India's second daily Mumbai-Heathrow service will continue to operate using its refurbished Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which retains a First Class cabin.
The UK remains one of Air India's largest international markets, driven by business travel, leisure demand and the Indian diaspora.
The airline currently operates 57 weekly non-stop flights between India and the UK, linking Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad and Amritsar with London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Birmingham.
Air India said the latest aircraft deployment forms part of its wider fleet modernisation programme and aims to provide customers with an improved long-haul travel experience while strengthening connectivity between India, the UK and onward destinations across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and Australia.