Air India to phase out remaining Airbus Classic A320s

Apr 14, 2017: Air India is in the process of phasing out its remaining aged Airbus Classic A320 planes.

According to media reports, Air India Chairman and Managing Director Ashwani Lohani has informed that the airline has already retired nine A320s from its fleet and the remaining six planes are likely to go out of service by March next year.

The over two-decade-old classic A320, unlike modern aircraft, has a set of bogey wheels. Bogey wheels are a set of four tyres making up one wheel.

Two years ago, the Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA) -- one of Air India's pilots' body had urged the aviation regulator DGCA to ground these planes to ensure passenger safety.

In order to facilitate replacement of its old fleet, the national carrier has already commenced induction of A320 Neo (new engine option) planes, 14 of which are being procured on lease this year.

The airline plans to induct a total of 29 A320 Neos into its fleet by March, 2019.