RECARO Aircraft Seating (RECARO) and Air India have launched a major retrofit programme for the airline’s Boeing 787-8 fleet, aimed at enhancing cabin comfort and aligning onboard products with its newer aircraft.
Under the initiative, RECARO will install its PL3530 seats in premium-economy and CL3710 seats in economy class. Both seat types have been tailored to Air India’s specifications, focusing on improved passenger comfort and functionality. Key features include refined ergonomics, greater recline, adjustable headrests and integrated charging options for personal electronic devices.
The retrofit will span 26 aircraft, with close to 6,000 seats set to be installed across the B787-8 fleet. The first aircraft has already been completed, marking an early milestone in the programme’s rollout.
This upgrade brings consistency across Air India’s wide-body operations, as the same RECARO seat models are already in service on the airline’s recently introduced Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Standardising cabin products is expected to streamline maintenance and deliver a more uniform passenger experience.
The programme reflects a broader effort by Air India to modernise its fleet interiors while maintaining operational efficiency. By adopting lightweight seating designs, the airline can also benefit from potential fuel savings alongside improved passenger comfort.
RECARO highlighted that its seat designs are built around a balance of weight, comfort and ergonomics—principles it refers to as its “magic triangle”. The PL3530 is positioned as a premium offering focused on enhanced comfort, while the CL3710 is designed to maximise living space within the economy cabin.
