Air India is making bold moves to strengthen its fleet and ensure safety with two major developments: the airline is seeking a $200 million loan to purchase six Boeing 777-300ER aircraft and has successfully completed fuel control switch inspections on its Boeing 787 and 737 fleets following a critical safety review.
Air India’s $200 Million Loan Plan to Boost Boeing 777 Fleet
In a strategic push to enhance its long-haul operations, Air India is pursuing a $200 million loan to acquire six Boeing 777-300ER jets from a U.S.-based leasing company. These aircraft primarily serve key international routes such as Delhi-New York and Mumbai-Chicago, helping the airline maintain and expand its footprint on transcontinental flights.
The loan request is routed through AI Fleet Services IFSC Ltd., Air India’s subsidiary registered at India’s GIFT City financial hub. This move will ensure the carrier sustains adequate aircraft capacity amid delivery delays and supply chain challenges impacting the global aviation sector.
Fuel Control Switch Safety Inspections Completed Successfully
Following a tragic Boeing 737 crash in Ahmedabad earlier this year, Air India took immediate action to inspect the fuel control switch (FCS) locking mechanisms on all its Boeing 787 and 737 aircraft, including Air India Express planes. These inspections, mandated by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), aimed to rule out any mechanical anomalies linked to the accident.
The comprehensive inspections concluded without any issues found, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to operational safety and the reliability of its fleet. Air India has emphasized transparency by voluntarily completing the checks ahead of the regulatory deadline.
Why This Matters for Passengers and the Aviation Industry
- Fleet Expansion: The new Boeing 777 jets will enhance Air India’s capacity to meet rising international travel demand, ensuring better connectivity and more flight options.
- Safety Assurance: Completing the fuel switch inspections promptly highlights Air India’s dedication to maintaining the highest safety standards in the wake of recent aviation incidents.
- Market Position: These developments strengthen Air India’s position as a leading global carrier, ready to compete with international airlines on key routes.
About Air India’s Fleet Strategy
Air India’s current fleet includes Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Boeing 737 aircraft, favored for their fuel efficiency and long-haul performance. The addition of Boeing 777-300ERs aligns with the airline’s plan to upgrade its wide-body fleet for premium services on high-demand international routes.