Air India’s nonstop route between Delhi and New York JFK, one of its most popular long-haul flights, has recently upgraded to the carrier’s new Airbus A350-900. This significant shift not only enhances passenger comfort across all cabins but also demonstrates Air India’s recent strides in expanding its fleet of modern aircraft.
The new Airbus A350 officially began service on this route on November 1. Air India flight 101 took off early in the morning, embarking on a 14-hour journey from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Previously, Air India operated this route using the Boeing 777-300ER, which served the airline for years. In fact, the A350 already serves Air India passengers traveling between Delhi and London, making New York a natural next step due to its distance and consistent demand. As Air India continues its expansion and fleet modernization under the leadership of the Tata Group, this shift to the latest-generation aircraft reflects its ambitions and significant progress. Campbell Wilson, Air India’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, spoke to the significance of this fleet expansion in elevating the carrier’s capabilities on high-demand routes like New York.
“Air India’s nonstop flight between Delhi and New York has always been extremely popular,” Wilson remarked, referring to the airline’s choice to use the latest aircraft models on this prestigious route over the years. Previously, the airline showcased its Boeing 747 jumbo jets and more recently, the Boeing 777. By introducing the Airbus A350, marketed as the next-generation flagship aircraft, Air India continues to prioritize top-notch service on one of its most competitive international routes.
The A350 is also an optimal choice for this route because of its impressive range and superior fuel efficiency compared to the Boeing 777 it replaces. Given that only one other airline, American Airlines, currently flies this route nonstop using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, Air India’s decision to implement the A350 presents a competitive advantage. American Airlines previously operated this route using the 777-300ER but recently switched to the Dreamliner. In addition to the Delhi-JFK route, Air India plans to extend A350 service to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with a new service that will run five times a week, beginning on January 2, 2025.
The Airbus A350-900 introduces a brand-new onboard product lineup for Air India customers. Business class now includes 28 private suites configured in a 1-2-1 layout, ensuring direct aisle access and added privacy through sliding doors. Notably, this is also the first time Air India passengers flying between Delhi and New York have the option of a premium economy class. This new cabin offers 24 premium economy seats with extra legroom in a 2-4-2 arrangement, catering to passengers seeking greater comfort without upgrading to business class.
In addition to these seating upgrades, premium cabin passengers are treated to new amenity kits. These exclusive kits were crafted specifically for Air India by the luxury Italian brand Ferragamo, introduced earlier this year. This partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering a high-end experience to passengers in business and premium economy classes.
With these changes, Air India’s nonstop service between Delhi and New York has not only gained a technological upgrade but also introduces a higher level of in-flight service aimed at enhancing the passenger experience across all cabins. The choice to deploy the A350 reflects the airline’s progress and commitment to redefining comfort and efficiency on one of its flagship international routes.
