Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Air India Restarts DelhiShanghai Flights and Debuts Custom 787-9 on MumbaiFrankfurt

The twin moves underscore a drive to rebuild links with China, reflecting Air India’s long-haul upgrade plan.

Overview

  • Non-stop service between Delhi and Shanghai returned after nearly six years, operating four times weekly with Boeing 787-8 aircraft.
  • The inaugural Shanghai–Delhi flight carried more than 230 passengers, with AI352 departing New Delhi shortly after noon local time.
  • Air India’s first purpose-fitted 787-9, registered VT-AWA, entered commercial service on the MumbaiFrankfurt route.
  • The new 787-9 features a three-class layout with 1-2-1 business suites, fully flat beds, 17-inch 4K screens, wireless charging, and upgraded premium economy and economy cabins.
  • The carrier outlined noon departures from Delhi with late-night returns from Shanghai and continues daily MumbaiFrankfurt services, while possible additional China routes later in 2026 remain subject to approvals.