Since the five-year Vihaan.AI program's 2022 launch, the airline has accomplished several milestones, such as allocating over $400 million for aircraft refurbishment and introducing premium economy seating on select long-haul flights.
Air India has either returned all previously grounded planes to service or decommissioned them for future sale, and has achieved a 17% improvement in RASK over a one-year period. The company has also overhauled its outdated IT infrastructure.
Campbell Wilson, Air India's CEO, has praised the program's first six months, stating that it has successfully addressed numerous long-standing issues and united employees. Major investments include a record-setting aircraft order, $400 million dedicated to refurbishing existing aircraft, $200 million spent on new IT systems, and the hiring of thousands of new staff, all aimed at restoring Air India's status in global aviation.
In February, the airline committed to purchasing 220 Boeing and 250 Airbus aircraft. Almost all first and business-class IFE systems have been repaired, while nearly 90% of economy-class systems are now operational.
To enhance reliability, Air India has established agreements for spares and support and is working with Boeing on a performance improvement program for its 787 fleet.
The next phase of Air India's transformation will involve merging low-cost subsidiaries AirAsia India and Air India Express, following the successful consolidation of their reservation platforms, websites, and customer-facing systems. Additionally, after obtaining regulatory approval, Tata Group's full-service carriers, Air India and Vistara, will be merged.
