Air India boosts global competitiveness with fourth-ranked on-time performance

Air india

Air india


KATHMANDU: Air India has been ranked the world’s fourth most on-time global airline, marking a major milestone in the carrier’s transformation under the Tata Group as it simultaneously accelerates plans to modernize more than half of its widebody fleet by the end of 2026.

According to the latest June 2026 report by aviation analytics firm Cirium, Air India achieved an on-time performance (OTP) of nearly 87%, with 15,135 flights operating during the month. The report also noted that the airline maintained an almost perfect schedule completion rate, underscoring improved operational reliability.

The recognition places Air India among the world’s best-performing airlines for punctuality, reflecting significant improvements in flight operations despite managing services through highly congested hubs such as Delhi and Mumbai.

Tata-led turnaround gains momentum

Since returning to the ownership of the Tata Group, Air India has undertaken an ambitious transformation program focused on improving operational efficiency, customer experience, network expansion and fleet modernization.

The airline said it has strengthened both domestic and international flight operations while enhancing its ability to maintain schedules across one of the world’s busiest aviation markets.

The company plans to further improve operational performance through real-time network monitoring, enhanced digital technologies, better aircraft turnaround management and expanded global connectivity.

More than half of widebody fleet to be upgraded

As part of its long-term transformation strategy, Air India is also investing heavily in fleet renewal.

The airline has already initiated plans involving approximately 600 Airbus aircraft as part of its expansion and modernization roadmap.

In addition to new aircraft deliveries, Air India is refurbishing its existing fleet by retrofitting older aircraft with modern cabins and upgraded onboard equipment.

The carrier said it aims to modernize more than 50% of its widebody aircraft by the end of 2026, featuring redesigned interiors and upgraded passenger amenities to meet evolving customer expectations.

Several refurbished aircraft have already returned to commercial service, while the remaining aircraft are undergoing phased upgrades.

Fleet transformation to strengthen competitiveness

The extensive fleet modernization program is expected to improve passenger comfort, operational efficiency and Air India’s competitiveness in the international aviation market.

The airline said upgrading existing aircraft alongside expanding its fleet will help support growing travel demand while positioning the carrier for long-term global growth.

The latest recognition from Cirium comes as Air India continues one of the aviation industry’s largest transformation programs, combining operational improvements with significant investments in aircraft, technology and customer experience.

Air India
Air India
Fiscal Nepal |
Sunday July 19, 2026, 11:15:12 AM |


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