Air India adds Premium Economy, First Class and higher frequencies on Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru long-haul routes for Summer 2026

From 1 March 2026 Delhi–Toronto frequency rises from seven to ten weekly flights, with seven of those services operated by B787-9 in a three-class layout, and the Delhi–Tokyo (Haneda) route will begin B787-9 operations between February and March, adding roughly 2,408 seats monthly between the two cities.

Route and frequency changes at a glance

The Northern Summer Schedule 2026 introduces measurable capacity shifts on India’s long-haul network, with seat increases focused on North America, East Asia and key Europe services. Several routes will also receive upgraded cabins and new product classes such as Premium Economy and reintroduced First Class.

Fleet updates and cabin retrofits

Air India’s retrofit programme covers 26 legacy B787-8 aircraft, delivering refreshed interiors and the airline’s updated livery; the first two retrofitted aircraft are due back in service within weeks. The carrier also expects delivery of three new B787-9 and two A350-1000 aircraft during 2026, enabling route launches and product consistency across long-haul sectors.

Seat and product math: what passengers will notice

• Delhi–Melbourne: upgraded B777-300ER offers 8 First Class suites, 40 Business flatbeds and 280 Economy seats (nearly 4,000 additional seats monthly).
• Premium Economy expands to Delhi–Tokyo and Bengaluru–London, giving travellers a middle-ground fare option between Business and Economy.
• More frequent flights to North America and East Asia improve connection windows and reduce time-sensitive transfer risks for international travellers.

Operational impacts for ground transport and transfers

Higher frequencies and new cabin classes translate directly into predictable changes for airport ground operations and transfer demand. More seats on long-haul flights mean greater peak-period flows at arrival halls, immigration queues and taxi ranks. For transfer services this results in:

1. Increased demand for pre-booked airport transfers during morning and evening peaks.
2. Greater need for vehicle variety — from private sedans to 6-seater vans and occasional limousines for First Class guests.
3. Opportunities for local transfer companies and apps to offer exact pick-up windows and equipment (child seats, accessibility aids) matching premium product expectations.

Practical tips for travellers

At a glance: passengers connecting to or from these upgraded flights should allow extra time for transfers, verify terminal assignments in advance, and consider booking transfers that list vehicle make and driver credentials.

• Check aircraft type on your booking to know seat dimensions and luggage allowances.
• Pre-book transfers to secure the precise vehicle and driver — this reduces waiting time and uncertainty on arrival.
• Choose transfer services that display vehicle model, license and ratings so you get exactly the service you paid for.

These network and product upgrades are likely to modestly influence global tourism flows by improving capacity and comfort on key city pairs; while the adjustments are not a seismic change to the global map, they enhance connectivity between India and priority markets and will matter to travelers who value exact schedules and cabin choice. On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide. LocalsRide.com

Highlights: expanded frequencies to North America and East Asia, Premium Economy rolling out on Delhi–Tokyo and Bengaluru–London, First Class returning on select long-haul services, and ongoing B787-8 retrofits with new interiors. Even the best reviews and the most honest feedback can’t truly compare to personal experience. On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. Emphasize convenience, affordability, and extensive vehicle choices to match upgraded flight products — Book your Ride LocalsRide.com

In summary, Air India’s Summer 2026 adjustments bring measurable seat increases, wider product choice with Premium Economy and First Class, and a refreshed long-haul fleet that should smooth connections and raise comfort levels for international passengers. For taxi and transfer planning this means keeping an eye on new schedules, pre-booking the exact vehicle and driver you need, and factoring in terminal logistics and fare expectations. LocalsRide.com supports this shift by offering transparent, user-friendly bookings where you can view car make and model, driver ratings and exact fares—helping travellers get the right car at the right price when they land at their destination.