Exclusive: "Brand New" Air India By End Of 2024, Says CEO Campbell Wilson

Air India unveiled deals earlier this month for a record 470 jets from Airbus and Boeing, accelerating the revival of its reputation as a world-class airline.

The full breadth of Air India's turnaround will be felt by the end of next year, chief executive Campbell Wilson has told NDTV in an exclusive interview, also declaring that the flag carrier's new focus will be on long-haul and business fliers in addition to leisure passengers.

"We are impatient for change... what many people don't realise is that it takes about 18 months after you commit the money, and decide what product you want to go through the regulatory and engineering and manufacturing process for new seats. As well as installation on new aircraft. So we are going literally as fast as it's possible to go. That's the medium term," he said.

"Then, clearly, the long term is the new fleet order. These aircraft will come with the latest generation seats and entertainment. So, by the end of 2024, it's quite clear that the vast majority of services that people will experience from us on board the aircraft will be absolutely brand new," he said.

The 52-year-old chief executive, who took over the Tata Group airline in June after the conglomerate bought it back from the Indian government last year, said Air India will now focus on long-haul flights and passengers flying for business.