Product upgrades and onboard experience now play a central role in airline recovery and brand repositioning. At Outbound Travel Mart 2026, Air India Group is using the trade platform to demonstrate how its fleet renewal and service enhancements are reshaping the customer proposition across full-service and value segments.
Air India Group is showcasing the new seat product on Air India’s recently inducted Boeing 787-9 aircraft and the onboard experience of Air India Express at Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) 2026, being held from 5–7 February 2026 at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai.
At the exhibition, Air India is displaying its new Business Class and Premium Economy seats from the Boeing 787-9, which is currently operating on the Mumbai–Frankfurt route. The showcase highlights key elements of the airline’s refreshed onboard experience, which is also available on Air India’s Airbus A350 widebody aircraft and select narrowbody aircraft operating on domestic and short-haul international routes. Visitors can additionally experience the Airbus A350 cabin through a Virtual Reality zone at the booth.
OTM 2026 also marks the inaugural participation of Air India Express at the event. The airline is highlighting its expanding network of 45 domestic and 17 international destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf region through interactive displays. The presentation includes its newly inducted Boeing 737-8 line-fit aircraft with enhanced cabin interiors, along with its Gourmair hot meal offering and an interactive network map.
Commenting on the participation, Manish Puri, Head of global sales, Air India group, said, “OTM 2026 presents a significant platform for Air India and Air India Express to foster engagement and deepen relationships with over 50,000 key trade visitors from across the globe. Change is in the air for Air India and together with our trade partners, we are driving growth, innovation, and seamless connectivity, shaping the future of travel in India and beyond.”
The new cabins showcased on the Boeing 787-9 are set to become the standard across Air India’s entire Boeing 787 fleet. In line with this plan, 26 legacy Boeing 787-8 aircraft are undergoing progressive retrofitting with the same cabin interiors and entertainment systems. The retrofit programme is underway, with several aircraft scheduled to return to service in 2026 following a complete nose-to-tail refresh, including the new Air India livery. By the end of 2026, nearly 60 per cent of the airline’s widebody fleet is expected to feature modern interiors.
Air India Express currently operates a fleet of over 100 aircraft. The airline received its first fully customised line-fit aircraft in December 2025, marking a key milestone in its fleet modernisation journey. Two-thirds of its fleet now comprises Boeing 737-8 and Airbus A320/321neo aircraft, offering improved fuel efficiency and enhanced onboard comfort.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.
