Air India has announced the deployment of its upgraded Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on flights between Delhi and Melbourne from July 1, 2026, replacing the existing Boeing 787-8. The upgrade introduces First Class on the route for the first time, significantly increases premium seat capacity, and enhances the overall onboard experience.
Configured in a three-class layout, the upgraded Boeing 777-300ER features eight First Class suites, 40 fully flat Business Class seats and 280 Economy Class seats, compared to the existing Boeing 787-8 configuration of 28 Business Class and 241 Economy Class seats.
The deployment forms part of Air India’s ongoing transformation programme aimed at delivering a more consistent and elevated long-haul travel experience.
Passengers travelling on the Delhi-Melbourne route will benefit from a range of upgraded onboard features, including luxurious private First Class suites with leather-upholstered seats that convert into fully flat beds, privacy doors, personalised service and an enhanced dining experience.
Business Class passengers will enjoy fully flat beds with improved comfort, privacy and space, complemented by upgraded onboard service elements.
The aircraft will also introduce Wi-Fi connectivity on the route for the first time, allowing passengers to remain connected throughout their journey.
Air India has also refreshed its food and beverage offerings with curated menus featuring Indian and international cuisine, complemented by a selection of premium wines and spirits. The in-flight entertainment system has also been enhanced with an expanded library of movies, television programmes and music catering to a global audience.
The airline stated that the aircraft upgrade complements its broader investment in enhancing the customer journey. Eligible premium passengers departing from Delhi will have access to the airline’s new Maharaja Lounge at Delhi Airport, offering upgraded dining, seating and personalised pre-flight services.
According to the airline, these enhancements reflect its continued focus on fleet modernisation, product upgrades, and the delivery of a seamless customer experience across every stage of the journey.
Australia continues to be a key international market for Air India, supported by growing demand from both business and leisure travellers. The introduction of the Boeing 777-300ER on the Delhi-Melbourne route reinforces the airline’s commitment to strengthening connectivity while offering a globally competitive premium product.
Air India currently operates four weekly non-stop flights between Delhi and Melbourne and plans to increase services to daily flights from September 1, 2026.
The Delhi-Melbourne service also offers convenient same-terminal connections via Delhi to several European destinations, including London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Milan and Zurich.
In addition, Air India operates non-stop services between Delhi and Sydney, providing seamless onward connections to destinations across the United Kingdom and Europe.
