New Delhi: Air India has announced plans to deploy its brand-new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the Delhi-Toronto sector starting August 1. The strategic operational update allows the carrier to eliminate its technical refueling stop in Vienna, restoring direct, non-stop service between the two cities subject to airspace availability.
The removal of the intermediate stop is expected to shorten journey times from Delhi to Toronto by nearly three hours, reducing total flight duration from 20 hours to approximately 17 hours. The return sector from Toronto to Delhi will remain a non-stop operation lasting up to 16 hours. Alongside the aircraft deployment, the airline is increasing service frequency from five flights a week back to daily operations, reversing temporary schedule scale-backs instituted during June and July due to surging global fuel costs and geopolitical airspace restrictions.
The introduction of the line-fit Boeing 787-9 aircraft marks the debut of Air India’s updated cabin interior in the Canadian market. Arranged in a three-class layout featuring 296 seats, the configuration introduces Premium Economy to the route for the first time. The layout offers 30 private Business Class suites featuring fully flat beds and direct aisle access, 28 Premium Economy seats with extended legroom and calf rests, and 238 updated Economy seats.
All cabins will be equipped with modern inflight entertainment systems, wireless charging stations, power outlets, custom mood lighting, and updated dining offerings. Air India Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson highlighted the significance of the move, describing Toronto as a key gateway serving the expansive Indian diaspora in Canada and reiterating the airline’s effort to roll out modern long-haul cabin products across major international markets.
