Air India A350 Touches Down in Newark
Air India has expanded its Airbus A350 operations to the New York region by officially launching a new non-stop service between Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The flight departed Delhi at 02:42 on January 2, 2024, and is scheduled to land just before 07:00 local time in Newark. This development comes only two months after Air India introduced an A350 service on its Delhi to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) route in November 2024.
The carrier’s A350-900 is outfitted with a modern interior design and features several premium enhancements. Passengers can look forward to private suites in Business Class, a dedicated Premium Economy cabin, and Air India’s new inflight entertainment system. This IFE upgrade comes with an expanded content library, allowing travelers to choose from a variety of movies, music, and TV shows. Complementing the entertainment are revised catering options and refined serviceware, both of which are part of Air India’s broader efforts to elevate the onboard experience for its long-haul customers.
Air India’s involvement with the Airbus A350 platform began in January 2024, when the airline’s first-ever A350-900 flight departed Bengaluru Kempegowda Airport (BLR) for Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport (BOM). In May 2024, the carrier introduced its first international A350 flight to Dubai, signaling Air India’s desire to operate the aircraft on a variety of shorter international hops. This was soon followed by the airline’s first long-haul A350 service in September 2024—a route from Delhi to London-Heathrow Airport (LHW). The success of these initial flights validated the A350’s performance and inspired Air India’s deployment of the aircraft on additional long-haul sectors, including Newark, JFK, and beyond.
In addition to its A350 services, Air India still operates several Boeing widebody aircraft—mainly 777-300ERs—on flights to Washington, D.C.; Chicago; and San Francisco. These routes give the airline a broad presence in North America, reinforcing its position as a key connector between India and major U.S. destinations. As customer demand for direct flights remains high, the airline’s growing A350 fleet promises enhanced travel experiences while helping maintain on-time performance and overall reliability.
The expansion of Air India’s A350 network is also connected to significant investments in new aircraft. In December 2024, the airline confirmed its role in an undisclosed order for 10 A350-900s and 90 single-aisle A320neo family aircraft. This order joins a previously placed agreement in 2023 for 40 A350s and 210 A320neo family planes. Collectively, these orders signify Air India’s long-term vision of modernizing its fleet, improving efficiency, and competing effectively on the global stage.
Given the range and fuel economy of the Airbus A350, these new routes streamline operations by enabling non-stop travel between India’s capital and key global financial centers. Travelers have already embraced the combination of convenience and modern comforts offered by the A350, and Air India’s management believes that continued expansion of the aircraft’s presence will strengthen the airline’s standing in both existing and emerging markets.
As the carrier continues to grow and upgrade its long-haul fleet, the inaugural flight to Newark cements Air India’s ongoing efforts to meet the ever-evolving demands of the intercontinental travel landscape. Through advanced aircraft technology, elevated cabin experiences, and strategic route planning, Air India aims to retain its status as a premier choice for air travel between India and North America.
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