Air India is set to make history as it announces the commencement of commercial operations for its Airbus A350, the first of its kind in India, starting January 22, 2024. The airline has opened bookings, inviting passengers from Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai to experience the unparalleled comfort and cutting-edge technology showcased by the A350 aircraft in Air India’s new captivating design.
Initially, the Airbus A350 will operate on domestic routes for crew familiarization and regulatory compliance. However, passengers can anticipate a remarkable journey as the A350 later expands its operations to longer-haul flights, connecting destinations across continents. This development signifies a significant milestone in Air India’s transformation journey, with the A350 standing as a prominent symbol of the airline’s evolution.
The debut of Air India’s first Airbus A350, bearing the registration VT-JRA, occurred on December 23, 2023, at IGI Airport in Delhi, following a flight from Airbus’ facility in Toulouse, France. This A350 is part of the 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft ordered by Air India, with a new aircraft expected to arrive every six days throughout 2024.
The Airbus A350-900 is equipped with Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, boasting an impressive 20 percent increase in fuel efficiency compared to similar models. This not only contributes to reduced fuel emissions but also aligns with Air India’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly operations.
Air India A350-900: Features
Air India’s A350-900 showcases a three-class cabin configuration with 316 seats. This includes 28 private Business suites with full-flat beds, 24 Premium Economy seats offering extra legroom, and 264 spacious Economy seats. Passengers across all classes can indulge in the latest-generation Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system and HD screens for an immersive flying experience.
Air India A350-900: Domestic Flight Schedule
Commencing January 22, 2024, Air India will implement a revised schedule for its A350 domestic flights. The updated flight details are as follows:
- AI589:
- Days of Operation: All days except Tuesdays
- Sector: Bengaluru-Mumbai
- Departure: 07:05 AM
- Arrival: 08:50 AM
- AI589:
- Days of Operation: All days except Tuesdays
- Sector: Mumbai-Chennai
- Departure: 10:05 AM
- Arrival: 12:05 PM
- AI589:
- Days of Operation: All days except Tuesdays
- Sector: Chennai-Bengaluru
- Departure: 13:20 PM
- Arrival: 14:30 PM
- AI587:
- Days of Operation: All days except Tuesdays
- Sector: Bengaluru-Chennai
- Departure: 16:00 PM
- Arrival: 17:10 PM
- AI587:
- Days of Operation: All days except Tuesdays
- Sector: Chennai-Hyderabad
- Departure: 18:30 PM
- Arrival: 19:40 PM
- AI587:
- Days of Operation: All days except Tuesdays
- Sector: Hyderabad-Bengaluru
- Departure: 21:10 PM
- Arrival: 22:20 PM
- AI868:
- Days of Operation: Tuesdays
- Sector: Bengaluru-Delhi
- Departure: 07:40 AM
- Arrival: 10:30 AM
- AI869:
- Days of Operation: Tuesdays
- Sector: Delhi-Bengaluru
- Departure: 19:00 PM
- Arrival: 21:50 PM
In conjunction with the A350’s entry into service, Air India has unveiled a new global brand identity and introduced a stylish collection of uniforms designed by celebrity couturier Manish Malhotra for both cabin and cockpit crew.
