Air India takes the delivery of 20th 787 aircraft

Air India Wednesday took the delivery of its 20th Dreamliner aircraft, and said that with its induction the airline hopes to expand its network.

"Taking delivery of our 20th 787 Dreamliner marks an important day for Air India," said Rohit Nandan, chairman and managing director, Air India.

"With this airplane, we are building on the success of our other 787s, which are providing an exceptional experience to our passengers while allowing us to expand our network both within India and around the world," Nandan added.

A team of Air India executives and pilots took the delivery of the aircraft at Boeing's manufacturing facility in North Charleston, US.

According to the airline, the new Dreamliner features Star Alliance and Air India's livery. The flag carrier joined the leading global airline network Star Alliance last year.

"Today Air India joins an elite group of airlines who have taken the delivery of 20 or more 787s and this milestone highlights the successful partnership we have between Boeing and Air India," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific and India sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

"The 787 continues to provide great value to Air India, opening new routes, with superior fuel efficiency and unmatched passenger comfort."

Currently, Air India serves more than 60 domestic and 37 international destinations. The airline ordered 27 aircraft of 787 type in 2008. The airline is expected to take the delivery of seven more 787s aircraft.