Air India is in discussions with Boeing and Airbus to acquire 30-40 widebody aircraft, including Airbus A350s and Boeing 777Xs, with the potential deal exceeding 50 jets. The order, expected to be finalized by the Paris Air Show in June, would add to the airline’s previous orders of 470 aircraft in 2023 and 100 Airbus jets last year, most of which were narrowbody planes. The expansion aligns with India’s growing international travel demand, which is expected to rise by 15-20% this financial year.

However, global aircraft shortages may impact delivery timelines. CEO Campbell Wilson has warned of delays due to supply chain constraints affecting engines, fuselage materials, and business-class seats. The delays have forced Air India to retain older planes, slowing Tata Group's five-year transformation strategy.

The airline aims to regain market share from international carriers like Emirates and Lufthansa. Meanwhile, Air India and its subsidiary, Air India Express, are expected to receive around 20 new aircraft this year to support growth.