Air India To Deploy New Boeing 787-9 On Mumbai–Frankfurt Route From February, Expands Global Connectivity

Air India has announced a major upgrade to its Mumbai–Frankfurt service, with the airline set to deploy its brand-new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the route starting February. The move is part of the airline’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme aimed at improving passenger experience on long-haul international routes.

According to the airline, the aircraft operating on the Mumbai–Frankfurt sector will feature 100% new or upgraded onboard products, including refreshed interiors and enhanced comfort across cabins.

Part of Air India’s Fleet Transformation Plan

In an official statement, Air India said the deployment reflects its broader transformation strategy, under which additional widebody aircraft deliveries and retrofits are planned throughout 2026.

“These upgrades reflect Air India’s ongoing fleet transformation, which will see additional widebody deliveries and retrofits throughout 2026, delivering modernised interiors to a significant portion of the long-haul fleet,” the airline said.

The Boeing 787-9 is expected to offer improved fuel efficiency, quieter cabins, and better in-flight comfort, strengthening Air India’s presence on key European routes.

Enhanced Connectivity Through Lufthansa Codeshare

Air India continues its long-standing codeshare partnership with Lufthansa, which allows passengers flying to Frankfurt to seamlessly connect onward to 29 destinations across Europe, as well as select cities in North America and South America.

This collaboration significantly expands travel options for passengers departing from India, positioning Frankfurt as a major hub for onward international connections.

New Codeshare Agreement With Saudia Group

In another key development, Air India has recently entered into a codeshare agreement with Saudia Group, Saudi Arabia’s national carrier. The partnership is aimed at strengthening connectivity between India and the Middle East while improving travel flexibility for passengers of both airlines.

Under the agreement, Air India passengers can fly to Jeddah or Riyadh and connect onward on Saudia-operated flights to destinations including Dammam, Abha, Gassim, Gizan, Madinah, and Taif.

Conversely, Saudia passengers will gain access to a wide network of Indian cities via Mumbai and Delhi, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow, Jaipur, and over 15 additional destinations through interline arrangements.

Leadership Views On Strategic Expansion

Commenting on the partnership, Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, said Saudi Arabia remains one of the airline’s most important markets in the Middle East.

“Saudi Arabia is amongst our most important markets in the Middle East, with the country fast transforming into a major international gateway to the region. We are happy to be partnering with Saudia to provide greater access to the large Indian diaspora spread across Saudi Arabia, while also opening up the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving tourism offerings to Indian travellers,” Wilson said.

H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said the agreement marks a strategic milestone for both airlines.

“The codeshare agreement with Air India is a strategic step forward, offering guests broader access to more destinations through simplified travel procedures that enhance the overall travel experience,” he said.

Strengthening Air India’s Global Network

With the introduction of the new Boeing 787-9 on the Mumbai–Frankfurt route and expanded codeshare partnerships, Air India continues to strengthen its international footprint while offering passengers improved comfort, wider connectivity, and smoother global travel options.