Air India will upgrade its non-stop Delhi–Melbourne service from July 1 by deploying its refurbished Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, replacing the Boeing 787-8 currently operating on the route. The announcement introduces First Class for the first time on the sector, increases premium seating capacity and brings onboard features such as Wi-Fi and upgraded cabin interiors as part of the airline's fleet transformation.
New Boeing 777 for Melbourne flights
Air India will begin operating its upgraded Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on non-stop flights between Delhi and Melbourne from July 1, replacing the existing Boeing 787-8 aircraft on the route. The airline said the change will enhance passenger comfort, increase premium seating capacity and introduce First Class cabins on the service for the first time.
The upgraded aircraft is configured in a three-class layout with eight First Class suites, 40 fully flat Business Class seats and 280 Economy Class seats. In comparison, the Boeing 787-8 currently deployed on the route offers 28 Business Class seats and 241 Economy Class seats.
The airline said the aircraft deployment is part of its ongoing transformation programme aimed at offering a more consistent long-haul travel experience.
More premium seats, Wi-Fi from July 1
Passengers travelling on the Delhi–Melbourne route will have access to several new features, including private First Class suites with fully flat beds, upgraded Business Class cabins, and Wi-Fi connectivity, which is being introduced on the route for the first time.
Air India also said travellers can expect refreshed food and beverage options featuring Indian and international cuisine, a selection of premium wines and spirits, and an expanded inflight entertainment library with movies, television shows and music.
Eligible premium passengers departing from Delhi will also have access to Air India's new Maharaja Lounge at Indira Gandhi International Airport, offering upgraded dining, seating and other pre-flight services.
Daily flights from September
Australia remains an important international market for Air India, with demand from both business and leisure travellers, the airline said.
Air India currently operates four non-stop flights a week between Delhi and Melbourne. The airline plans to increase the frequency to daily flights from September 1, 2026.
The Delhi–Melbourne service also provides same-terminal connections through Delhi to several European destinations, including London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Milan and Zurich. Air India also operates non-stop flights between Delhi and Sydney, offering onward connections to destinations in the UK and Europe.
