DELHI: India’s aviation sector is in a state of transition, with 680 passenger aircraft currently in operation while 133 remain grounded across different airlines. A significant portion of the country’s fleet is modern, with 435 aircraft less than five years old, but 105 aircraft are over 15 years old, raising concerns over ageing fleets. Meanwhile, airlines have placed massive orders for 1,359 new aircraft between 2022 and 2025, indicating a push towards expansion and renewal.
IndiGo leads in operational aircraft with 319, followed by Air India at 198 and Air India Express at 101. However, older aircraft remain in use, particularly with SpiceJet and Air India Express, which operate 18 and 37 aircraft over 15 years old, respectively. While 185 aircraft fall in the 5-10 year range, 88 are between 10-15 years old.
In terms of fleet expansion, IndiGo has ordered 510 Airbus A320 NEO aircraft, while Air India has secured 235 A320 Family jets, 40 A350s, and several Boeing wide-body planes. Akasa Air has placed orders for 154 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has no fixed maximum age limit for aircraft, but it ensures compliance with global safety, efficiency, and environmental standards.
