Air India Partners with Recaro for Major Seating Upgrade in Widebody Fleet
In a significant initiative to enhance passenger comfort and boost its competitiveness on a global scale, Air India has entered into a strategic partnership with Recaro Aircraft Seating. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the seating arrangements in Air India’s widebody fleet. Over the next five to six years, the airline plans to install over 22,000 Recaro seats, underscoring the seating company’s prestigious standing in the industry.
Air India’s Forward-Looking Initiative
The extensive installation of Recaro seats is part of both linefit and retrofit programs, slated to span the next half-decade. For its Premium Economy, Air India has chosen the PL3530 recliner seat, while the Economy Class will see the introduction of the CL3710 and the latest generation CL3810 seats. Renowned for their lightweight construction, these seats contribute significantly to reducing the aircraft’s carbon footprint, aligning perfectly with Air India’s sustainability goals.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
The PL3530 recliner seat offers ample stowage and a comfortable 7-inch recline, designed to enhance the passenger experience significantly. The CL3710 seat features a six-way adjustable headrest with enhanced neck support. The CL3810, meanwhile, introduces similar headrest and lumbar support features, along with a more spacious seating arrangement. All seats will be equipped with state-of-the-art Inflight Entertainment Systems and will boast a custom trim and finish, reflecting Air India’s distinctive brand identity.
Industry-wide Adoption of Recaro Seats
This partnership not only highlights Air India’s commitment to passenger comfort but also the global trust and acceptance of Recaro’s seating solutions. The widebody retrofit project, valued at approximately USD 400 million, involves the installation of over 22,000 seats in both linefit and retrofit programs. This initiative sets a new benchmark in the aviation industry, emphasizing the critical importance of passenger experience in maintaining a competitive edge in today’s dynamic market.