Air India continues its fleet overhaul with a wellness focus

Air India is expanding its Canadian network for the winter 2026-27 season, launching a new non-stop route between Toronto and Mumbai while introducing its newest wellness-focused cabin products on flights between Toronto and Delhi.

The airline has begun deploying its new Boeing 787-9 aircraft on Toronto-Delhi flights, marking the first time Canadian travellers will have access to Air India's latest onboard experience. 

PAX recently got a first-hand look.

The aircraft’s entire design was factory-fitted and curated. 

What began as a two-dimensional canvas was scaled up into a vibrant design intended to serve global passengers, particularly those travelling to India.

Mindful living, up in the air

Passengers boarding the aircraft are greeted with soothing classical Indian music and a lighting system with 10 different settings based on Ayurvedic principles. 

The lighting is designed to help balance chakras, circadian rhythms and melatonin levels during different stages of the flight, with the aim of helping passengers feel more refreshed on arrival.

In business class, colour, materials, finishes and architecture have all been revised, starting with richly coloured fabric seats, which were intentionally chosen over leather for greater comfort while sleeping. 

Two posture-enhancing pillows are provided, along with an ornate blanket featuring classical Indian designs.

Storage cubbies with inset mirrors are positioned at shoulder level and intentionally kept out of passengers’ direct sightlines to reduce visual clutter. 

The same approach applies to wireless phone charging and standard USB charging ports. 

Each seat also features an elegant lamp incorporating Air India’s signature jaali pattern, inspired by India’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Air India is also rolling out restaurant-style dining, already available in the U.K., and the new business class pods are designed to accommodate it. 

Meal tables pull out alongside a separate cocktail table to provide additional space, while armrest storage includes a dedicated area for water bottles. 

Four-way adjustable headrests can also be customized to passengers’ needs.

Elements of the same design philosophy extend into premium economy. 

The ambient lighting continues overhead, while bottle holders are built into the seatbacks for easy access. Independently moving calf rests and footrests are also designed to make long flights more comfortable.

Across all three cabins, the design incorporates refined detailing, soft curves, warm lighting, improved storage and intuitive functionality, creating a contemporary interpretation of Indian identity.

The aircraft are configured with 30 Business Class suites, 28 Premium Economy seats and 238 Economy seats.

Other onboard enhancements include:

• Business Class suites with direct aisle access, 79-inch fully flat beds, wireless charging, 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and expanded personal storage
• A dedicated Premium Economy cabin in a 2-3-2 configuration with a 38-inch seat pitch, adjustable headrests and leg rests and 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR entertainment screens
• Updated Economy Class seating with ergonomic design, 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and integrated holders for personal electronic devices
• A next-generation inflight entertainment system featuring more than 3,000 hours of content, Bluetooth audio connectivity, USB-A and USB-C charging ports and AC power outlets
• Refreshed onboard dining, premium tableware, upgraded bedding and redesigned amenity kits

The Toronto service also offers one-stop access through Delhi to destinations across Air India's domestic network, including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi, among others.

Historic fleet renewal

The 787-9 is the first aircraft to showcase Air India’s new branding since the airline was reacquired by Tata Sons from the government after 70 years. 

Its deployment in Toronto forms part of Air India's broader transformation strategy, which includes one of the aviation industry's largest fleet renewal programs.

The airline has placed orders for 600 Airbus and Boeing aircraft while modernizing its existing fleet. 

It has already taken delivery of three new Boeing 787-9s over the past six months, with additional Boeing 787-9s and Airbus A350-1000s expected to join the fleet later this year.

Air India is also retrofitting its legacy widebody fleet. 

Two of its 26 Boeing 787-8 aircraft have already returned to service with refreshed interiors, while three more are currently being upgraded in the United States.

By the end of 2027, the airline expects roughly 75 per cent of its widebody fleet to feature new or upgraded interiors as it continues enhancing its long-haul passenger experience.

Schedule of flights to and from Toronto

All timings are indicated in local time zones. (+1) denotes arrival on the following calendar day.

During the winter 2026-27 season, Air India will operate a total of 20 flights each week from Canada to India, including 10 weekly flights from Toronto to Delhi, three from Toronto to Mumbai and seven from Vancouver to Delhi.

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