Air India Expands Global Network: New Aircraft and Strategic Partnerships

Air India is set to enhance its Mumbai-Frankfurt route with new B787-9 aircraft, offering upgraded products. In collaboration with Lufthansa and a new codeshare with Saudia, the airline aims to boost global connectivity, enabling easier travel for passengers across Europe, North America, and the Middle East.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 16-01-2026 14:35 IST | Created: 16-01-2026 14:35 IST
Air India Expands Global Network: New Aircraft and Strategic Partnerships
Representative Image (File Photo/ANI). Image Credit: ANI
  • Country:
  • India

Air India, a prominent name in global aviation, has announced that it will introduce brand-new B787-9 aircraft to its Mumbai-Frankfurt route starting February, as part of a significant product upgrade and fleet transformation effort. According to a press release, this enhancement aligns with their vision of delivering modernized interiors across the fleet by 2026, with more widebody aircraft deliveries and upgrades on the horizon.

In tandem with these upgrades, Air India is strengthening its international connectivity. A codeshare partnership with Lufthansa allows passengers to seamlessly access 29 destinations in Europe, as well as selected points in North and South America, beyond Frankfurt. The airline is also expanding its reach in the Middle East through a new codeshare agreement with the Saudia Group, enhancing travel options and offering more convenient connections.

The collaboration with Saudia enables Air India's passengers to fly to Jeddah or Riyadh and then connect to additional cities across Saudi Arabia. Similarly, Saudia's passengers gain access to a broad spectrum of Indian cities. Commenting on this development, Air India's CEO Campbell Wilson highlighted Saudi Arabia's strategic importance as a burgeoning gateway, while Saudia's Director General, H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, emphasized the shared commitment to expanding connectivity and enhancing the travel experience for their guests.

Give Feedback