Overview

• Air India is actively pursuing dozens of Boeing 737 MAX jets initially intended for Chinese airlines but blocked due to U.S.–China tariffs.
• The airline plans to receive nine additional jets by June 2025, potentially increasing its total to 50 aircraft from this reallocation.
• Chinese airlines halted Boeing deliveries after Beijing imposed tariffs of up to 125% on U.S.-made goods, forcing Boeing to remarket the jets.
• Air India Express aims to reconfigure these planes to full economy class by April 2026, though supply chain delays are slowing retrofits.
• This move bolsters Air India's fleet expansion as it seeks to compete with IndiGo, while Boeing faces long-term risks in the Chinese market.