Business class on a B787-9. Photo: Air India On February 1, 2026, Air India announced two significant moves to expand its international network and enhance the passenger experience.
A new Boeing 787-9 aircraft, specially built and customized for the company, entered commercial service for the first time, operating on a flight from Mumbai to Frankfurt. At the same time, Air India resumed direct flights between Delhi and Shanghai after a nearly six-year hiatus.
The Delhi-Shanghai flight, which departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport at 12:07 local time, will operate four times a week on a Boeing 787-8. The resumption of the route restores the company's direct connectivity to mainland China and is designed to meet demand from business, family, and leisure travelers.
Meanwhile, the new Boeing 787-9 aircraft, registered VT-AWA, took off from Mumbai to Frankfurt, becoming the first in the airline's fleet to feature an all-new cabin design. This marks the first commercial launch of Air India's new interior concept, which was unveiled in late January 2026 and is expected to be gradually implemented across the airline's entire Dreamliner fleet.
The new aircraft features three classes of service. Business Class offers 30 suites in a 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access, seats that fold out into a flat bed up to 79 inches long, 17-inch 4K touchscreens, wireless charging and ample storage.
Premium Economy Class features 28 wide seats in a 2-3-2 configuration with 38 inches of legroom, adjustable footrests, and 13.3-inch 4K screens.
The economy class offers 238 ergonomic seats with 11.6-inch 4K touchscreens.
All cabins are equipped with the Thales AVANT Up entertainment system, Type A and Type C charging ports, Bluetooth connectivity for headphones, new ambient lighting inspired by Indian wellness traditions, and a unique interior design for long-haul flights.
Delhi-Shanghai and Mumbai-Frankfurt flights are available for booking across all Air India sales channels, including the company's website, app, call centers, airport sales offices, and travel agents worldwide.