Air India launches Delhi–Shanghai flights and its first custom-interior Boeing 787-9.
Air India yesterday commemorated two key milestones in its worldwide development and product modernisation journey, with the entrance into service of its first Boeing 787-9 with custom designed interiors, and the resumption of non stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai after nearly six years.
The Delhi-Shanghai flight (AI352) departed Indira Gandhi International Airport at 12:07 hours IST yesterday, reuniting the Indian capital city with one of Asia’s top business and cultural cities. This 4x weekly service, operated with a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, restores Air India’s direct connection to mainland China and satisfies increased demand from business travellers, families, and tourists.
At 12:37 IST, Air India’s recently acquired B787-9 (registered VT-AWA) flying as AI2027 left Mumbai for Frankfurt. This deployment marks the introduction of Air India’s entirely remodelled cabin interiors. The new cabin product, which was unveiled on January 27, 2026, will gradually be implemented throughout the airline’s fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft, setting a new standard for customer comfort.
With 30 Business Class suites placed in a 1-2-1 configuration, the Boeing 787-9 has wireless charging, 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens, totally flat beds up to 79 inches long with a 42-inch pitch, direct aisle access, and improved personal storage.
With its 28 larger seats arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration, 38-inch pitch, better recline, movable calf and leg rests, and 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens, the Premium Economy cabin is positioned as a unique, high end travel experience.
238 ergonomic seats with 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and improved comfort features for long-haul travel make up the Economy Class.
