Air India has marked a dual milestone in its international expansion and fleet transformation strategy with the induction of its first line-fit Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and the resumption of non-stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai after nearly six years.
The developments signal a strategic push by the national carrier to strengthen long-haul connectivity while elevating the onboard experience as part of its broader modernisation programme.
First Line-Fit Boeing 787-9 Enters Commercial Service
Air India’s first factory-delivered, made-for-Air India Boeing 787-9 entered commercial operations on the Mumbai–Frankfurt route. Registered as VT-AWA and operating as flight AI2027, the aircraft departed Mumbai at 1237 hrs IST, marking the debut of the airline’s redesigned cabin interiors first unveiled on 27 January 2026.
The introduction of the line-fit 787-9 represents a key step in Air India’s fleet renewal strategy, with the upgraded interiors set to be progressively introduced across its Boeing 787 fleet.
The new Dreamliner features a three-class configuration designed to enhance comfort and privacy across cabins.
Business Class offers 30 suites arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for every passenger. The fully flat beds extend up to 79 inches in length, with a 42-inch pitch. Additional features include wireless charging, enhanced personal storage and 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen monitors.
Premium Economy comprises 28 seats in a 2-3-2 layout, offering a 38-inch pitch, deeper recline, adjustable calf and leg rests, and 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR screens.
Economy Class includes 238 ergonomically designed seats, each equipped with an 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen.
Across all cabins, passengers have access to the Thales AVANT Up in-flight entertainment system, Bluetooth audio connectivity, USB Type A and Type C charging ports, and updated mood lighting inspired by ancient Indian wellness traditions. The interiors also incorporate bespoke design elements reflecting Indian aesthetics in a contemporary form.
On the Mumbai–Frankfurt sector, flight AI2027 departs Mumbai at 1235 hrs and arrives in Frankfurt at 1730 hrs, while the return service AI2028 leaves Frankfurt at 2020 hrs, arriving in Mumbai at 0900 hrs the following day (all timings local).
Delhi–Shanghai Non-Stop Flights Resume
On the same day, Air India reinstated its direct air link between Delhi and Shanghai, restoring non-stop connectivity between India and mainland China after nearly six years.
The resumed service, operating as flight AI352, departed Indira Gandhi International Airport at 1207 hrs IST. The route operates four times weekly using a Boeing 787-8 aircraft.
The Delhi–Shanghai route is expected to serve growing demand from business travellers, corporate sectors, students, families and tourists, reconnecting two major economic and cultural hubs in Asia.
Under the current schedule, flight AI352 departs Delhi at 1200 hrs and arrives in Shanghai at 2020 hrs. The return flight AI351 departs Shanghai at 2200 hrs and arrives in Delhi at 0315 hrs the following day (all timings local).
Strengthening Global Connectivity
The simultaneous launch of the new-generation 787-9 and the reinstatement of the Shanghai service underscore Air India’s renewed focus on expanding long-haul operations while modernising its product offering.
Bookings for both the Delhi–Shanghai and Mumbai–Frankfurt routes are available through all Air India sales channels, including its website, mobile application, airport ticketing offices, contact centres and travel agents worldwide.
As the airline continues to invest in next-generation aircraft and enhanced passenger experiences, the twin announcements reflect a broader ambition: positioning Air India as a competitive full-service global carrier with upgraded cabins, expanded connectivity and a stronger international footprint.
