Date:22/11/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/11/22/stories/2006112216970400.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Air India, mega-deal in hand, set to fly high

T.S. Shankar

Interesting mix of Boeing jets ordered

CHENNAI: Fresh from concluding an aircraft deal worth Rs.35,000 crore with U.S. manufacturer Boeing, Air India will try to meet the aspirations of India's globetrotting corporate whiz kids.

"We have managed not only to survive the fierce race in India's civil aviation sector but spread our wings by adding new destinations and are ready to face future challenges with greater confidence with the induction of 68 state-of-the-art Boeing jets," according to V. Thulasidas, Chairman and Managing Director, AI. The interesting mix of Boeing jets (737s, 777s, 787s), especially the ultra long-range version with the technologically advanced cockpits, will fit in well with the AI's expansion plans.

Be it short or long hauls by these jetliners, passengers will experience a change on the ground as well as on-board. Besides large windows and spacious aisles, the Boeing planes will be equipped with mood lighting systems that will change to match the time, and the air inhaled by passengers will be not dry, Mr. Thulasidas said.

Comfort level

To meet the specific needs of future travellers, Air India invited captains of the industry, including Ratan Tata, the Ambanis and the Birlas and the socialites to give their views on increasing comfort levels in the aircraft seats, complimentary toiletries to be provided for the First and Business Class passengers and improved in-flight entertainment.

"Ratan Tata spent over an hour in the various seats displayed by the national carrier before indicating his choice," Mr. Thulasidas said.

These jetliners would not only be 25 per cent more fuel-efficient, but would carry more passengers without any payload penalty.