Air India is currently engaged in discussions with Boeing to procure approximately 10 737 MAX aircraft, following the rejection of deliveries by Chinese clients amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. Boeing’s CEO, Kelly Ortberg, stated on April 23 that many customers in China have expressed their unwillingness to accept deliveries due to tariffs, prompting the company to consider reallocating these jets to other interested buyers. According to reports from Reuters, Air India is looking to acquire around 10 narrowbody planes for its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express. The airline has a history of obtaining white tail aircraft, which are jets originally produced for one client but subsequently sold to another. It is anticipated that the configuration of the jets in Air India’s existing fleet, compared to those intended for Chinese customers, may influence the negotiations regarding pricing. This acquisition could significantly enhance Air India’s expansion strategy, as the airline has faced growth limitations due to a shortage of new aircraft. Air India CEO Campbell Wilson remarked that the airline has been a ‘victim of circumstance,’ alluding to the ongoing delivery delays affecting both Boeing and Airbus.
