Air India has retrofitted the first of its A320neo aircraft with new business, premium economy and economy seating by Collins Aerospace.
Two of the carrier’s A320neos are now configured with eight business class seats, with 24 seats in premium economy and 132 in economy.
The new three-class layout sees Air India offer premium economy for the first time on a narrowbody aircraft.
The new business class seat offers a 40-inch pitch and seven-inch recline, as well as an adjustable armrest, footrest and backrest, a tray table with a holder for personal electronic devices, and “multiple charging ports”.
Meanwhile the premium economy seat features a 32-inch pitch and four-inch recline, as well as four-way headrest, personal electronic device holder and USB charging port.
Finally the economy seat offers a seat pitch between 28 and 29 inches, with a four-inch recline, and features including a personal electronic device holder, USB charging port and coat hook.
Air India said it plans to introduce the new three-class configuration across its “entire full service narrowbody fleet” over the next year, with existing aircraft being retrofitted and new aircraft being line-fitted with the revamped layout.
The move follows the ongoing delivery of the carrier’s A350-900 aircraft, which feature 28 suites in business class, 24 seats in premium economy and 264 in economy.
The retrofitted A320neos will enter service from 1 July, on routes including Delhi-Bengaluru and Delhi-Chandigarh.
Commenting on the news Campbell Wilson, chief executive officer and Managing Director, Air India, said:
“The introduction of a three-class cabin to Air India’s narrowbody fleet and commencement of interior refits are important steps in the journey of enhancing the flying experience.
“The upgrade of the narrowbody fleet, which operates on domestic and short-haul international network, complements the upgraded widebody experience now available on our A350 fleet and new B777s, and on all other widebodies as they are refitted over the next two years.
“This comprehensive upgradation of Air India’s physical product is an important component of transforming into a world-class airline.”
