Air India’s First Line-Fit B787-9 Takes Off For Frankfurt, Delhi-Shanghai Flights Resume After Six Years

First made-for-Air India B787-9 takes off for Frankfurt from Mumbai

Air India has marked two landmark developments in its continued effort to expand its international network and upgrade passenger experience. The first made-for-Air India B787-9, featuring custom-styled interiors, entered commercial operations from Mumbai to Frankfurt, while simultaneously resuming its non-stop services between Delhi and Shanghai after nearly six years.

The Delhi-Shanghai flight (AI352) departed Indira Gandhi International Airport, reconnecting the Indian capital city with one of Asia’s premier business and cultural hubs. This 4x weekly service, operated with a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, restores Air India’s direct access to mainland China and supports growing demand from business travellers, families, and tourists.

Parallelly, the recently inducted B787-9 (registered VT-AWA) is operating as AI2027 Mumbai to Frankfurt. This deployment marks the debut of Air India’s completely redesigned cabin interiors, unveiled on 27 January 2026, which set a new standard for passenger comfort and will be rolled out across the airline’s entire B787 fleet.

The new Boeing 787-9 features 30 Business Class suites in a spacious 1-2-1 layout, each offering direct aisle access, fully flat beds up to 79 inches long with a generous 42-inch pitch, wireless charging, large 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and ample storage.

Premium Economy, as a dedicated, upscale cabin, offers 28 wide seats with generous legroom in a 2-3-2 layout, providing a 38-inch pitch, enhanced recline, adjustable calf and leg rests, 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens, and more.

Economy Class comprises 238 ergonomic seats, equipped with 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and improved overall comfort tailored for long-haul flights.

All three cabins feature Thales AVANT Up in-flight entertainment with high-definition touchscreens, Type A and C charging ports, new mood lighting inspired by ancient Indian wellness traditions, Bluetooth headphone connectivity, and bespoke design touches.