06 Nov 2025
#1 November 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India Completes First Phase of Legacy Retrofit Programme
Air India announced the successful completion of the first phase of its $400 million retrofit programme, covering all 27 of its legacy Airbus A320neo aircraft. The final aircraft re-entered service with upgraded cabin interiors and the airline’s new livery, completing the process within just one year since its launch in September 2024. Alongside 14 newly delivered A320neos and aircraft added through the Vistara merger, Air India now operates 104 A320 Family aircraft featuring new or refurbished interiors. CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson stated, “We continue to make good progress on the upgradation of our fleet. With over 100 of our A320 Family aircraft now featuring modern interiors, our guests will enjoy a superior travel experience across our extensive network.” The retrofit milestone marks a major step in Air India’s broader fleet modernisation plan under the Vihaan.AI transformation strategy.
IndiGo Expands Middle East Footprint with New Bengaluru–Riyadh Route
IndiGo announced the launch of five-times-weekly direct services between Bengaluru and Riyadh, effective 16 November 2025. Operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, the new route strengthens IndiGo’s connectivity with Saudi Arabia, complementing existing services from Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. IndiGo Head of Global Sales Vinay Malhotra said, “As Saudi Arabia’s capital and a key hub for trade and investment, Riyadh is significant for IndiGo to strengthen air connectivity with India. This new route from Bengaluru marks our fourth non-stop connection to Riyadh and reinforces IndiGo’s growing network across the Middle East.” The addition aligns with IndiGo’s strategy to deepen its presence in high-demand international markets, particularly those with strong business and expatriate travel links.
SpiceJet Bolsters Fleet with Airbus A340 Widebody Lease Agreement
SpiceJet announced it has finalised a lease agreement to induct an Airbus A340-300 aircraft into its fleet, marking an important development in its fleet expansion strategy. The aircraft is expected to arrive in India by the end of the month and enter service in early October. SpiceJet is also in advanced talks to lease a second A340-300, reinforcing its intent to expand international operations. Chief Business Officer Debojo Maharshi commented, “We are thrilled to introduce the Airbus A340 into our fleet as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance our service offerings and expand our domestic and international network.” With an additional 18 Boeing 737 aircraft also joining soon, the airline is positioning itself for one of its most ambitious growth phases in recent years.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India’s Retrofit Milestone
The completion of Air India’s A320neo retrofit programme within a year highlights its growing operational discipline and execution speed under Tata Group ownership. The refreshed cabin interiors enhance passenger experience and align Air India’s narrowbody product with global service standards, signalling a successful step in the carrier’s transformation journey.
On IndiGo’s Bengaluru–Riyadh Launch
IndiGo’s new Bengaluru–Riyadh service underscores the carrier’s continued focus on strategic regional expansion. Strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, particularly from India’s technology and business hub, taps into strong corporate, labour, and tourism flows. The route bolsters IndiGo’s positioning as a key connector between India and the Gulf.
On SpiceJet’s A340 Induction
SpiceJet’s decision to lease widebody aircraft demonstrates its intent to scale up long-haul and charter capabilities. The A340-300 offers immediate capacity for international expansion and special operations while complementing SpiceJet’s short-haul fleet. The move signals renewed confidence in market recovery and long-term network diversification.
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