How many passengers can Air India 747 carry?

The Maharaja’s Jumbo Jet: How Many Passengers Could Air India’s 747 Carry?

Air India, known for its iconic Maharaja mascot and rich aviation history, once operated a fleet of Boeing 747-400 aircraft, affectionately known as “Jumbo Jets.” These magnificent planes were the workhorses of their long-haul international routes, connecting India to destinations across the globe. But just how many passengers could these aerial behemoths carry?

The answer lies in the specifically configured three-class layout adopted by Air India for its 747-400s. Unlike some airlines that maximized passenger capacity, Air India prioritized a degree of comfort and service synonymous with their brand.

An Air India 747-400 in its prime could accommodate a total of 423 passengers. This was achieved through a carefully planned arrangement across three distinct cabin classes:

• First Class: Offering the ultimate in luxury, the forward cabin boasted 12 flat-bed seats. These were more than just seats; they were personal havens, allowing discerning travelers to relax and enjoy the journey in unparalleled comfort.

• Business Class: Positioned as a premium travel option, the Business Class section featured 26 angled-flat seats. While not completely flat, these seats provided significantly more space and recline than Economy, appealing to business travelers and those seeking a superior experience.

• Economy Class: Occupying the majority of the aircraft, the Economy Class section held 385 standard seats. While space was naturally more constrained, Air India strived to offer a comfortable experience even in this class, recognizing the importance of a pleasant journey for all its passengers.

The Air India 747-400 was more than just a mode of transportation; it was a symbol of India’s global reach and its commitment to connecting people across continents. While these iconic aircraft are no longer a part of the Air India fleet, they remain a significant part of the airline’s legacy, representing an era of spacious travel and unparalleled service. The memory of the Maharaja’s Jumbo Jet and its 423 passengers continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of aviation.