On Saturday, Air India made history when it formally accepted delivery of its first Airbus A350-900. This is a historic development because it makes Air India, a subsidiary of the Tata Group, the first airline in India to fly this kind of aircraft.
Official Statement from Air India
“India’s leading global airline, Air India, welcomed its first Airbus A350-900 VT-JLR registered aircraft today,” read an official statement from the airline. Following the local schedule and landing at 01:46 PM, the aircraft from the Airbus centre in Toulouse, France, arrived in New Delhi.
Notable Presence on the Inaugural Flight
One of the first trained Indian pilots on the A350, senior pilot Captain Monica Batra Vaidya, was a supervisor on that initial flight. Her presence highlights Indian pilots’ proficiency and aptitude with cutting-edge aircraft.
Air India’s Transformation in the Aviation Sector
Leading the charge to change India’s aviation scene has been Air India. A significant change has occurred with the arrival of the Airbus A350-900, since it is the first Indian airline to use a new wide-body fleet type in more than ten years. Before this, Air India created history in 2012 when it added the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to its fleet.
CEO’s Perspective
“This moment is not just about metal and engines; it is the result of the unwavering efforts of all Air India employees towards our commitment to continuous transformation and setting new benchmarks for our airline,” said Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India. Redefining the Indian aviation industry for the global arena with the A350 is a major step in the right direction.
The Airbus A350’s entry to Air India’s fleet is a historic day for the airline and a trailblazing development in the aviation industry of India.