New interiors, gourmet meals, and cultural tail art mark the airline’s transformation drive
The newly retrofitted Air India Express Boeing 737-8
Under its ongoing Vihaan.ai transformation plan, Air India on Tuesday introduced a revamped Boeing 737-8 aircraft, operated by Air India Express and registered as VT-BWD. The aircraft features a striking Tsungkotepsu-inspired tail design that reflects the airline’s effort to honour India’s diverse cultural heritage. The Tsungkotepsu is a traditional warrior shawl from Nagaland, woven by the Ao Naga tribe to symbolise valour and honour. Each aircraft returning from retrofitting will feature distinct tail designs drawn from different regions, symbolising the airline’s commitment to honouring multiple cultures across the country.
New cabin look
Inside, the aircraft flaunts a fresh orange-hued cabin that gives a spacious, modern feel, accentuated by multi-tone mood lighting. The plane houses 189 new ergonomically designed seats with a 4-degree recline in the emergency rows upholstered in synthetic leather that the airline claims is antibacterial and easy to maintain. Passengers can also expect added comfort, with a 29-inch seat pitch in regular rows and 38 inches in the emergency exits. Each seat now comes with both Type-A and Type-C charging ports for in-flight convenience.
Each seat on the revamped Boeing 737-8 now features both Type-A and Type-C charging ports for in-flight convenience. Pics/Madhulika Ram Kavattur
Hot meals on board
The airline has also introduced a new gourmet menu, bringing back hot meals for all passengers. The aircraft’s six onboard ovens can heat up to 41 meals simultaneously, ensuring faster service on board.
More flights this winter
As part of its winter schedule expansion, Air India Express will operate over 2700 weekly flights across 114 domestic routes and more than 780 short-haul international flights spanning 70 routes, a 25 per cent jump over last winter. The airline is adding 48 new domestic and 10 international routes.
By November 2025, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are expected to account for nearly 74 per cent of total domestic departures, reflecting the airline’s growing hub-based operations. Aviation expert and retired pilot KVJ Rao said, “Air India has always paid tribute to India’s diverse cultures, and this initiative continues that legacy while upgrading passenger comfort.”
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