Air India Upgrades U.S. Flights with New Suite-Style Business Class

Air India is stepping up its game in the competitive airline market by launching new suite-style business class seats on U.S. routes. This launch is part of the airline's strategy to improve its image and passenger experience after its reacquisition by the Tata Group in 2021.

The airline's first new Airbus A350-900, equipped with these luxury suites, will debut on flights to John F. Kennedy International Airport from November 1. Additional Air India business class routes to Newark Liberty International Airport will start on January 2.

The newly introduced suite-style business class significantly upgrades Air India's previous offerings. The new Airbus A350 features a 1 × 2 × 1 configuration, ensuring that all passengers have direct aisle access. This is a major improvement over the old Boeing 777 business class, which had an awkward 2 × 3 × 2 layout with middle Air India new business class seats.

The new design also includes sliding doors, offering enhanced privacy—an amenity now considered standard among premium airlines such as Korean Air and British Airways.

"The new suite-style cabin is leagues above Air India's legacy product," said a Business Insider reporter at the Farnborough Airshow in July. Each suite provides ample storage with a closet, cubby, and tabletop space, a significant improvement over the limited storage on older planes.

The A350 also features lie-flat beds that stretch up to 6 feet 7 inches, comfortably accommodating taller passengers. This feature was lacking in the previous business class due to a slightly sloped bed.

Air India has also upgraded its in-flight entertainment and amenities. The new A350 suites come with a high-definition 21-inch flatscreen television, a touchscreen remote, and noise-canceling headphones. Passengers can enjoy a range of entertainment, ranging from Hollywood and Bollywood movies to music and games.

The airline has also improved its soft product offerings with elegant linens, redesigned china featuring the iconic Maharaja mascot, and Tumi sleepwear, including pajamas and slippers.

These new suites are part of Air India's plan to better compete with major carriers like Qatar Airways and Emirates, known for their luxurious in-flight Air India business class experiences. CEO Campbell Wilson stated that Air India aims to create an "aviation hub" in India, leveraging its strategic location for global connections.

The A350's cabin design, initially created by Russian carrier Aeroflot, has been retained by Air India with the addition of its branding and style. The acquisition of these planes was made possible due to sanctions preventing their delivery to Russia, allowing Air India to upgrade its fleet rapidly.

As Air India introduces these new features, it remains committed to refurbishing its existing Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 aircraft. This effort ensures a consistent and high-quality experience across all flights.

The new suite-style business class on the A350 represents a significant step for Air India. It aims to reclaim its status as a leading global airline, offering premium services tailored to today's discerning travelers.

Also Read: 2 Dead, 1 Injured in Tragic Tire Explosion at Delta Atlanta Facility