Business
Air India takes the delivery of 20th 787 aircraft
New Delhi, April 1
Air India Wednesday took
the delivery of its 20th Dreamliner aircraft, and said that with its
induction the airline hopes to expand its network.
"Taking
delivery of our 20th 787 Dreamliner marks an important day for Air
India," said Rohit Nandan, chairman and managing director, Air India.
"With
this airplane, we are building on the success of our other 787s, which
are providing an exceptional experience to our passengers while allowing
us to expand our network both within India and around the world,"
Nandan added.
A team of Air India executives and pilots took the
delivery of the aircraft at Boeing's manufacturing facility in North
Charleston, US.
According to the airline, the new Dreamliner
features Star Alliance and Air India's livery. The flag carrier joined
the leading global airline network Star Alliance last year.
"Today
Air India joins an elite group of airlines who have taken the delivery
of 20 or more 787s and this milestone highlights the successful
partnership we have between Boeing and Air India," said Dinesh Keskar,
senior vice president, Asia Pacific and India sales, Boeing Commercial
Airplanes.
"The 787 continues to provide great value to Air
India, opening new routes, with superior fuel efficiency and unmatched
passenger comfort."
Currently, Air India serves more than 60
domestic and 37 international destinations. The airline ordered 27
aircraft of 787 type in 2008. The airline is expected to take the
delivery of seven more 787s aircraft.