The acquisition of around 500 new aircraft by Air India is gaining more definition. According to Reuters sources, Boeing is expected to announce an order for more than 200 aircraft soon, including the 777X.
The number of units of the world’s largest passenger twin engine was not revealed, but Air India is also expected to close a deal for 190 737 MAX and 30 787 Dreamliner.
Airbus is not to be outdone as at least 200 A320neos are expected on order and dozens of A350 widebodies are expected. Manufacturers declined to comment, however.
The investment of around $100 billion in new planes involves plans by the Tata group, the airline’s new controller, to once again place Air India at the forefront of air travel in the country, one of the most promising markets for commercial aviation.
New partner: Singapore Airlines
The mega order comes at a time when the Tata group has entered into a partnership with Singapore Airlines so that the two are partners in the merger between Vistara and Air India.
While Vistara operates a modern fleet, which includes A320neo family aircraft and 787 widebodies, Air India has 112 aircraft, including older jets such as the A319, A320 and A321 and Boeing 777.
There are also 27 A320neo and another 27 787 Dreamliner, which reinforces the option to expand these fleets.
