Air India reveals new livery on its first A350
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Air India welcomed the first of 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft on 23 December sporting the airline’s latest livery.
The widebody aircraft, registered VT-JRA, arrived in New Delhi at 13:46 (local time) after the delivery flight from the Airbus facility in Toulouse.
With the latest delivery, Air India is now the first carrier in the country to operate the A350. The aircraft will enter commercial service in January 2024 and will initially be operated domestically for crew familiarisation.
Air India has 20 Airbus A350-900 on order, with five more scheduled for deliveries through March 2024. The airline’s firm orders with Airbus this year amounting to 250 aircraft also include 20 A350-1000.
“This moment marks a red-letter day for all of us at Air India,” said Campbell Wilson, CEO and managing director at Air India.
“The A350 is not just metal and engines; it’s the flying embodiment of the relentless efforts of all Air India employees towards our airline’s continuing transformation and of our commitment to setting new benchmarks. It is also, in many ways, a declaration of Indian aviation’s resurgence on the world stage.”
Questions & Answers
Q.When will Air India's first A350 begin commercial flights?
When will Air India's first A350 begin commercial flights?
The aircraft is scheduled to enter commercial service in January 2024. Initially, it will be operated on domestic routes to allow the crew to become familiar with its operation.
Q.Is this Air India's only A350 aircraft on order?
Is this Air India's only A350 aircraft on order?
No, Air India has firm orders for 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, with five more scheduled for delivery by March 2024. Their total orders with Airbus this year include 20 A350-1000 models as well.
Q.What is the registration number of this new A350 aircraft?
What is the registration number of this new A350 aircraft?
The widebody aircraft, which arrived in New Delhi on 23 December, has been registered as VT-JRA. It flew directly from the Airbus facility in Toulouse.
Q.What is the total number of aircraft Air India has on order from Airbus this year?
What is the total number of aircraft Air India has on order from Airbus this year?
Air India's firm orders with Airbus this year amount to 250 aircraft in total. These orders include both A350-900 and A350-1000 models, among others not specified.
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