Air India’s first line-fit B787-9 takes off for Frankfurt, Delhi-Shanghai flights resume after six years

Air India today marked two landmark developments in its continued effort to expand its international network and upgrade passenger experience. The first made-for-Air India B787-9, featuring custom-styled interiors, entered commercial operations today from Mumbai to Frankfurt, while simultaneously, Air India resumed its non-stop services between Delhi and Shanghai after nearly six years.

The Delhi-Shanghai flight (AI352) departed Indira Gandhi International Airport at 1207 hrs IST, reconnecting the Indian capital city with one of Asia's premier business and cultural hubs. This 4x weekly service, operated with a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, restores Air India's direct access to mainland China and supports growing demand from business travellers, families, and tourists.

Parallelly, Air India's recently inducted B787-9 (registered VT-AWA) operating as AI2027 departed Mumbai at 1237 hrs IST to Frankfurt. This deployment marks the debut of Air India's completely redesigned cabin interiors, unveiled on 27 January 2026, which set a new standard for passenger comfort and will be rolled out across the airline's entire B787 fleet.

The new Boeing 787-9 features 30 Business Class suites in a spacious 1-2-1 layout, each offering direct aisle access, fully flat beds up to 79 inches long with a generous 42-inch pitch, wireless charging, large 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and ample storage. Premium Economy, as a dedicated, upscale cabin, offers 28 wide seats with generous legroom in a 2-3-2 layout, providing a 38-inch pitch, enhanced recline, adjustable calf and leg rests, 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens, and more. Economy Class comprises 238 ergonomic seats, equipped with 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreens and improved overall comfort tailored for long-haul flights. All three cabins feature Thales AVANT Up in-flight entertainment with high-definition touchscreens, Type A and C charging ports, new mood lighting inspired by ancient Indian wellness traditions, Bluetooth headphone connectivity, and bespoke design touches.

Air India’s flights between Delhi-Shanghai and Mumbai-Frankfurt remain available for booking across all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, airport ticketing offices, contact centres, and through travel agents worldwide.