CodeWithKriti

From outdated cabins to world-class upgrades, Air India is rewriting its story. With the Tata Group at the helm and Singapore Airlines as a strategic partner, the Maharaja isn’t just making a comeback — he’s aiming for the skies where the competition lives. Here’s how India’s flag carrier is transforming into a global contender.

From Outdated to Ambitious

For years, Air India carried the weight of nostalgia — the Maharaja logo still smiled, but the airline felt outdated and struggling. Passengers complained of aging aircraft, inconsistent service, and a brand that had lost its shine in a hyper-competitive market. It wasn’t the Air India people once admired.

The Tata Turnaround

That started to change when the Tata Group regained control in January 2022. In just a couple of years, they’ve sparked visible improvements in service quality, launched a bold branding refresh, and announced collaborations that signal a long-term vision for the airline’s revival.

The Singapore Airlines Advantage

One of the most significant moves was bringing Singapore Airlines on board — not just as a partner, but as a stakeholder with a 25.1% share in Air India. This partnership delivers operational efficiency know-how from one of the world’s best carriers. It’s about more than codeshares; it’s about learning the discipline, systems, and attention to detail that make Singapore Airlines a global benchmark.

Retrofits for a New Passenger Experience

While the business logic is important, the heart of this transformation is about the people in the seats. Air India’s retrofit program is all about creating a seamless, convenient, and satisfying experience:

Fully upgraded cabins with modern design

New seating layouts, including improved premium economy

Advanced in-flight entertainment for long-haul comfort


These upgrades are more than cosmetic — they redefine first impressions.

Playing on Both Fronts

This isn’t just an international play. Yes, the airline is eyeing premium travelers on long-haul routes to the US, Europe, and the Gulf. But it’s also elevating domestic premium travel through new aircraft, route expansion, increased connectivity, and better cabin experiences — particularly for premium economy passengers who want affordable comfort.

Why It Matters

By combining Tata Group’s leadership, Singapore Airlines’ operational excellence, and a focus on customer experience, Air India is setting itself up for a powerful return. In a market where Gulf carriers dominate with luxury and efficiency, Air India’s refreshed product can finally compete — and win.

The Road Ahead

With modern aircraft, improved routes, and upgraded service, Air India is positioning itself not just as a national carrier, but as a global contender. The skies ahead look bright — and this time, the Maharaja may not just be smiling… he might be soaring.