Review of Air India Business Class

With Tata Group now firmly at the helm, Air India—India’s flagship airline—has entered a transformative chapter, widely recognized as one of the aviation industry’s most ambitious revivals. Previously hampered by legacy operational challenges and an aging product, the carrier is undergoing a sweeping overhaul aimed at restoring its competitive edge, especially in the premium Business Class segment. Industry analysts and frequent flyers alike are watching with anticipation as Air India strives to reclaim its reputation as a source of national pride through substantial investment and innovation.

Recently, Air India has introduced redesigned premium cabins, a refreshed brand identity, and a modernized livery. 

Operating out of Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, Air India remains the country’s leading international airline, leveraging a diverse fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. The airline is also a trailblazer in gender diversity, with over 200 female pilots—a figure that stands out in India, where women make up 12.4% of pilots, significantly above the global average of 5.4%.

The iconic Maharajah mascot, symbolizing Indian hospitality and warmth, continues to feature prominently across Air India’s branding, from boarding passes to in-flight materials. Despite speculation during the Tata-led restructuring and merger activities, the airline has confirmed its commitment to retaining this beloved emblem, citing its deep cultural resonance.

As part of its ongoing fleet renewal, Air India has begun integrating new Airbus A350-900s, some initially destined for Aeroflot, into its operations. However, only the latest A350-900s and retrofitted Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft will showcase the airline’s newly unveiled premium cabins. The comprehensive retrofit program, which commenced in 2024, is set to span approximately 30 months—heralding a new era for Air India’s long-haul experience. 

In May, Air India marked a milestone by deploying its new Airbus A350-900 on an international service from Delhi to Dubai—traditionally a Boeing 787-8 route. As crew gain familiarity with these state-of-the-art jets, A350-900s are expected to operate on longer international sectors, further elevating the passenger experience.  

The new livery seamlessly blends elements from both Air India and Indian Airlines, featuring a pristine white fuselage with a bold red underbelly. The tail and engine nacelles display the signature Air India motif: a red swan in flight embellished with the orange 'Konark Chakra', inspired by Odisha’s Sun Temple. The distinctive red arches framing each window pay homage to the airline’s heritage 'Palace in the Sky' design language.

Frequent flyers can take advantage of Flying Returns, Air India’s loyalty program, which offers tiered benefits—Silver, Gold, and the exclusive Maharajah Club for those earning over 75,000 points annually. As a Star Alliance member since 2014, Air India enables members to accrue and redeem points with 25 partner airlines, further enhancing global connectivity.

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi stands as India’s busiest aviation hub, having handled over 70 million passengers annually by 2024. Named after India’s third Prime Minister, the airport is strategically located in Palam, approximately 16 kilometers from the city center. The complex comprises three terminals: Terminals 1 and 2 serve domestic flights, while Terminal 3—a vast, modern facility—caters to both international and select domestic operations. 

Business Class travelers can access Air India’s signature Maharajah Lounges, situated on the mezzanine near the food court areas in both domestic and international terminals. Entry is granted to First and Business Class passengers, Flying Returns Elite members, and Star Alliance Gold cardholders. These lounges provide a curated selection of seating, freshly prepared hot meals, snacks, a salad bar, premium teas and coffee, as well as high-speed Wi-Fi, TV zones, workstations, reclining chairs, shower facilities, and a comprehensive range of newspapers and magazines. While most Maharajah Lounges are within India, international outposts are available at New York JFK and London Heathrow.

The previously available complimentary chauffeur-driven pick-up and drop-off service for Business and First Class passengers on outbound long-haul flights from India remains suspended as of 2025, a policy introduced during the pandemic. There is currently no official indication of its reinstatement.

Air India’s long-haul network is anchored by a fleet of Boeing and Airbus wide-bodies. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner offers 18 flatbed Business Class seats in a 2-2-2 configuration, measuring 22 inches (56 cm) wide with a 74-inch (190 cm) pitch. The Boeing 777-200LR and 777-300ER feature 35 Business Class seats in a 2-3-2 pattern, each 19.95 inches (50.6 cm) wide and 76 inches (193 cm) in pitch. However, on the 777s, the seats are angled-flat rather than true lie-flat, which may impact rest on longer journeys.

The interiors of the legacy fleet are showing their age, with limited direct aisle access. However, following the merger with Vistara, Air India is actively rolling out a comprehensive cabin upgrade program. All 777 and 787 aircraft are being retrofitted with cutting-edge Business Class suites and next-generation entertainment systems, with the first of these new cabins debuting in 2024 and widespread adoption expected by 2026.

Air India’s unprecedented order for 470 new aircraft—including 20 Boeing 787-9s, 10 Boeing 777-9s, 34 Airbus A350-1000s, and 6 Airbus A350-900s—will fundamentally modernize its fleet. New narrow-body aircraft began entering service in late 2024, with the majority of deliveries scheduled through 2025 and into 2026.

To bridge the transition, Air India has acquired several leased Boeing 777s and Airbus A320neo-family jets, some featuring Delta One Suites from Delta Air Lines, offering a significant upgrade in privacy and comfort compared to the legacy Business Class product. The airline continues to expand its wide-body fleet with new A350-900s, initially furnished with Aeroflot’s original interiors until Air India’s own cabins are introduced.

The latest A350-900 Business Class cabin showcases a sophisticated 1-2-1 layout, ensuring every seat has direct aisle access. The design incorporates a calming grey and aubergine palette, highlighted by rose gold and silver accents. Features include full lie-flat beds, wireless charging, ottomans, and expansive touchscreens—delivering a refined, modern premium experience for discerning travelers.

These next-generation cabins are also available in Air India’s new First and Premium Economy offerings, debuting initially on the A350-900 fleet.  

Our flight search platform provides detailed images, seat maps, and in-depth configuration data for nearly every airline and aircraft. You can evaluate seat pitch, width, recline, and layout before booking for complete peace of mind.

As a premier full-service airline, Air India provides thoughtfully curated meals and refreshments on every flight. On journeys under five hours, Business Class guests enjoy a substantial main meal; flights between five and nine hours feature both a main and a light meal, while longer intercontinental services offer two full meals and a snack service, ensuring no passenger goes hungry.

The airline’s culinary program has been revamped to highlight both global and Indian flavors, with a special emphasis on healthy and sustainably sourced ingredients. New vegan and plant-based dishes—such as vegetable kebabs, tofu Thai curry, and Medu Wada—join a menu that also celebrates Indian classics like mixed vegetable paratha, kadai paneer, masala dal, and brown rice. International selections include grilled prawns in fennel cream, herb-crusted baked fish, chicken mortadella salad with English mustard, and vegetarian options like zucchini cheddar steak. The dessert menu tempts with innovative creations like mango-passionfruit mousse, espresso almond crumble, and Khajur Tukda with Kesar Phirni.

Special meal requests—ranging from religious and dietary to children’s and medical needs—are easily accommodated with advance notice.

Cuisine remains a standout element of Air India’s Business Class. While the tray presentation may lack the flair of some competitors—often served all at once without branded cutlery or celebrity chef partnerships—the flavors are authentic and robust, especially the Indian curries. Spice levels can be high, so guests sensitive to heat should communicate their preferences to the crew.

Premium tableware elevates the meal experience: in First Class, Indian dishes are served on elegant gold-copper thalis, while Business Class features stainless steel cutlery and distinctive gold-finished tiffin-style salt and pepper shakers. Chinaware is adorned with intricate Mandala motifs, and a bespoke tea service celebrates India’s rich tea heritage. Premium Economy guests are treated to specially designed service plates.

Alcoholic beverages are available exclusively on international flights. Upon boarding, Business Class guests are welcomed with Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Brut Champagne and gourmet nuts. Once airborne, an impressive selection of global wines—including vintages from Château de L’Hestrange, Les Oliviers, Château Milon, and premium Italian producers—complements a robust list of spirits, beers, juices, and soft drinks.

Air India’s beverage program has expanded to include a broader range of high-end wines and craft spirits, as well as a premium tea menu that pays tribute to India’s storied tea culture. A cup of masala chai is a must-try for those wishing to immerse themselves in regional flavors.

Drinks are typically presented prior to or alongside the main meal service, allowing passengers to view the available choices and select their preferred pairing.

Our flight search tool details the Champagne and wine offerings across Business and First Class on leading airlines. We strive to keep this information current—please contact us if you spot updates or changes.

Historically, service consistency has been an area for improvement on Air India, but our most recent flights revealed a noticeable shift towards warmth and professionalism. Business Class passengers are greeted with a traditional “namaste” and attended to by experienced senior crew. In line with Tata Group’s vision, the airline has recruited over 4,200 new cabin crew and 900 pilots, signaling a commitment to elevating service standards and guest experience.

Cabin crew uniforms, crafted in partnership with the National Institute of Fashion Technology, offer a distinctive blend of tradition and modernity. Female staff choose between vibrant yellow sarees with red borders, chic black jackets with trousers, or stylish yellow kurtas paired with black pants. Male crew are outfitted in classic black jackets, trousers, blue pinstripe shirts, and red ties. New grooming protocols have been introduced, and an updated uniform collection—designed by acclaimed Indian couturier Manish Malhotra—reflects the airline’s contemporary brand ethos.

Manish Malhotra’s designs include ombré sarees and bandhgalas for cabin crew, while pilots don elegant double-breasted black suits. Junior female staff wear red-to-purple ombré sarees with matching blazers, while senior crew sport aubergine-to-burgundy ensembles. Sarees can now be worn over trousers, blending Eastern tradition with Western practicality and offering crew members greater comfort and self-expression.

Pilots’ uniforms feature a unique Vista pattern, symbolizing prestige and professionalism. Accessory choices—such as block heels, pearl earrings, and sling bags for women, or black brogues for men—complete the polished look.

Air India’s legacy long-haul aircraft are equipped with the Thales i3000 in-flight entertainment system, offering a selection of English and Hindi content, including a mix of Hollywood blockbusters, Bollywood hits, TV series, cartoons, and music. While functional, the current screens are low-resolution and lag behind industry leaders in clarity and responsiveness. The ongoing retrofit of the 777 and 787 fleets promises the introduction of high-definition, next-generation entertainment systems, with details expected to be revealed as installations progress.

At present, inflight Wi-Fi is not available, but Air India has confirmed plans to roll out connectivity across its long-haul aircraft as part of its modernization strategy.

Our flight search platform features up-to-date information on Wi-Fi availability and in-flight entertainment options for each flight.

Air India has elevated its amenity kits in partnership with luxury travel brand TUMI, offering exclusive hard-shell mini-cases inspired by TUMI’s renowned 19 Degree collection in Business, First, and Premium Economy cabins. Each kit includes a vegan leather patch, which can be custom-monogrammed at TUMI boutiques, and is stocked with Malin + Goetz skincare essentials—lip balm, hand and body lotion, and hydrating face mist—along with an eye mask, dental set, ear plugs, socks, pen, and tissues.

The airline also provides TUMI sleepwear crafted from recycled materials, with each set diverting the equivalent of 23 plastic bottles from landfills, contributing to an annual reduction of 18 million bottles.

Further enhancing the soft product, Air India has collaborated with legendary Italian fashion house Ferragamo. Business and First Class guests receive a premium set containing plush socks, high-quality eye masks, eco-friendly earplugs, and a toothbrush made from wheat straw. Skincare amenities—lip balm, toothpaste, hand cream, and a comb—are included, with First Class travelers enjoying an additional Ferragamo fragrance.

Premium bedding has also been introduced, featuring memory foam mattress toppers and duvets in Business and First Class, while Premium Economy guests receive ultra-soft blankets—ensuring restful sleep regardless of cabin.

Air India’s regional network is primarily operated by the Airbus A320 family, offering 8 or 12 Business Class recliner seats in a 2-2 arrangement. These seats provide a 21-inch (53 cm) width and a 40-inch (102 cm) pitch. The A319 typically has 8 Business Class seats, while the A320 and A321 feature 12. Some A320s are configured entirely for Economy Class and do not offer a premium cabin.

With a historic order for 210 new Airbus narrow-body aircraft (140 A320neos, 70 A321neos) and 190 Boeing 737 MAX jets, Air India is set to dramatically refresh its short- and medium-haul product with modern interiors and enhanced passenger comfort by the end of 2025.

For flights under 90 minutes, guests receive cold snacks and beverages; flights between 90 and 120 minutes offer time-of-day meals with vegetarian options, and longer flights up to five hours include hot meals and multiple beverage rounds. Alcohol is not served on domestic flights, and crew are authorized to decline service to intoxicated guests on international sectors.

The newly delivered A350-900s, featuring First, Business, and Premium Economy cabins, are currently deployed on domestic routes for crew training and product familiarization prior to expanding to international services.

Our flight search engine highlights CO2 emissions per flight and prioritizes itineraries featuring the most modern, fuel-efficient aircraft for eco-conscious travelers.

Air India is accelerating its sustainability agenda through the adoption of next-generation aircraft renowned for their fuel efficiency. The Boeing 737 MAX, now a mainstay on domestic and short-haul international routes, delivers up to 20% lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to older models. The introduction of the Boeing 777X as the largest twin-engine aircraft in the fleet, along with the Airbus A350’s proven efficiency and low noise profile, marks a significant step toward a greener operation.

The airline has achieved an 80% reduction in single-use plastics on board by switching to compostable and biodegradable alternatives. Initiatives include replacing plastic water bottles in Economy with alternative serving methods, substituting paper straws for plastic, and utilizing wooden stirrers. These changes have been implemented across the global network since 2024.

India’s access to sustainable feedstock and solar energy positions the country as a potential leader in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption. Following Vistara’s landmark SAF-powered wide-body flight in 2023, Air India is actively preparing to introduce SAF on select international routes, reinforcing its commitment to decarbonization and responsible travel.  

• Tata Group’s stewardship is revitalizing Air India, offering a unique chance for the national carrier to redefine the Business Class experience with deep-rooted expertise and vision.
• Authentic Indian cuisine remains a standout, delivering bold, memorable flavors that elevate the in-flight dining experience.
• The enduring Maharajah mascot continues to symbolize traditional Indian hospitality, anchoring the brand’s identity in warmth and service.
• Rapid transformation is underway: new A350-900s, fully refreshed Boeing 777s, and the introduction of First, Business, and Premium Economy cabins are reshaping Air India’s position among Asia’s elite airlines. From innovative uniforms and amenity kits to an updated livery and logo, the entire guest experience is being reimagined. With service at the heart of this evolution, Air India’s future looks brighter than ever—watch this space for ongoing updates!