In a momentous occasion, Air India successfully launched its first Airbus A350-900 commercial flight, marking a significant milestone for the airline and introducing passengers to the revamped Air India experience. Flight AI 589, operating from Bengaluru to Mumbai, took off punctually from Kempegowda International Airport on Monday, offering passengers a glimpse into the enhanced features of the new aircraft.
The inaugural flight, carrying a nearly full complement of passengers eager to explore the revamped Air India, showcased not only the beginning of scheduled services for the A350 but also the introduction of the airline’s distinctive new livery.
Passengers on Flight AI 589 were treated to a preview of the A350’s cutting-edge in-flight entertainment (IFE) system and unique amenities, emphasizing the enhanced travel experience the aircraft promises. The Airbus A350 had previously been displayed at the Wings India Global Aviation Summit in Hyderabad.
Scheduled every day except Tuesdays, AI 589 departs Bengaluru at 7.05 a.m. and arrives in Mumbai at 8.50 a.m. Initially, the A350 will be deployed on domestic routes for crew familiarization and regulatory compliance, allowing passengers between Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai to experience its advanced technology.
Following this phase, the A350 will be utilized for long-haul international flights, contributing to the expansion of Air India’s growing wide-body fleet, which includes both owned and recently leased aircraft. The A350-900 is part of Air India’s extensive order of 470 new aircraft placed less than a year ago.
Configured with a three-class cabin layout, the A350 boasts 316 seats, including 28 private Business suites with full-flat beds, 24 Premium Economy seats offering extra legroom and additional amenities, and 264 spacious Economy seats. All seats are equipped with the latest-generation Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system and HD screens.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 showcases a remarkable 20% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to similar aircraft, contributing to reduced fuel emissions and sustainable operations.
Air India received its first Airbus A350-900, registered as VT-JRA, on December 23, 2023, at IGI airport in Delhi. This marked the commencement of Air India’s ambitious 470-aircraft order, with a new aircraft scheduled to arrive every six days throughout 2024. The introduction of the A350 signals a new era for Air India, promising passengers a heightened level of comfort, entertainment, and efficiency in air travel.