It may also face delays in receiving the medium-haul Airbus A321neos planned for the Air India-Vistara alliance, since the European planemaker is sold out until 2028 or later.
According to one industry source, new Boeing 737 MAXs would most likely be delivered to Air India Express, the company’s low-cost carrier, which may be rebranded.
Insiders claim aircraft and engine manufacturers have been pounding on Air India’s door for months, with new CEO Campbell Wilson reluctant to hasten the fleet selection.
According to Reuters, Air India is spending more time studying Airbus A350s and Boeing wide-body 787 and 777 aircraft, in addition to a possible mixed order for smaller single-aisle planes.
Campbell acknowledged last month that discussions are underway to “greatly expand” Air India’s fleet over the next five years, adding, “At the risk of gross understatement, the investment will be substantial.”
