Inside Air India Express’s New Boeing 737-8 — Airline’s First Retrofitted Aircraft Redefines Comfort and Style in Low-Cost Flying with Leather Seats, USB Ports And Sky Lighting

Air India Express unveiled the interiors of its latest Boeing 737-8 aircraft at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, marking a major step in its transformation journey. The new aircraft, registered as VT-BWD, reflects the airline’s refreshed identity and commitment to delivering best-in-class passenger comfort. The event underscored the brand’s renewed focus on comfort, technology, and cultural storytelling in the skies.

The new cabin layout features 189 ergonomically designed seats from Collins Aerospace, upholstered in soft leatherette with superior padding and thicker armrests. The design offers a seat pitch of up to 38 inches and a recline of three inches, ensuring unmatched comfort within the narrow-body aircraft segment. It’s a reimagined experience crafted for both short-haul convenience and long-haul relaxation.

Directed by filmmaker Dibakar Banerjee and created with Omnicom Advertising Group, the airline’s new campaign “Xplore More, Xpress More” highlights the joy of meaningful travel, comfort, and connection — representing a new chapter in Indian aviation storytelling.

Each seat now includes USB Type-C charging ports, allowing passengers to power their devices effortlessly during flight. With the modern traveller in mind, the seating combines functionality with style, integrating technology and ergonomics for a truly connected experience in the sky. Air India Express is redefining what affordable comfort can feel like.

The aircraft’s Boeing Sky Interior features dynamic LED lighting and a sleeker cabin design that enhances the sense of space. The warm tones and mood lighting create a calm, premium atmosphere — a noticeable shift from conventional low-cost airline cabins. New carpets and softer lighting add a touch of elegance that reflects Air India Express’s new identity.

The tail art of the new Boeing 737-8 draws inspiration from the traditional Tsüngkotepsü shawl of the Ao Naga tribe — a symbol of valor and heritage. This design celebrates Nagaland’s warrior culture while continuing Air India Express’s mission of showcasing India’s regional artistry on a global stage. Each aircraft in the fleet carries a unique motif that connects passengers with India’s cultural diversity.

With dishes like Shondesh Tiramisu and Barley Salad, Air India Express blends India’s culinary traditions with contemporary tastes. Combined with regional art and modern interiors, the airline’s experience celebrates India’s culture at 35,000 feet.

The expanded ‘Gourmair’ menu features signature dishes like Awadhi Chicken Biryani, Paneer Makhani with Dal Tadka, Kebab Platters, and Cheddar & Chives Omelette. Passengers can also pre-book “Moments by AIX” Celebration Cakes to mark birthdays or anniversaries onboard — adding a touch of celebration to the travel experience. It’s inflight dining reimagined with an Indian heart.

Passengers can now savour freshly prepared ‘Gourmair’ hot meals thanks to newly installed inflight ovens. This upgrade allows Air India Express to serve restaurant-style dishes in the air — a rare offering in its category. From breakfast to dinner, travellers can enjoy freshly heated meals that bring warmth and indulgence back to flying.

As part of its winter 2025 schedule, Air India Express is expanding its network by 25%, adding 48 new domestic and 10 new international routes. With 115 aircraft in service, the airline is strengthening hubs in Bengaluru and Navi Mumbai while redefining affordable travel. (All image credits: @AirIndiaX)