Wireless device to enhance efficiency, boost green drive

Bangalore, 2nd December 2023: Air India, India’s leading global airline, has introduced an environment-friendly, automated aircraft exterior washing and cleaning system that will further boost the airline’s operational efficiency through the adoption of innovative technology.

The device ‘Aerowash’ is equipped with multiple modern features, like robotic micro-fibre brush drum for cleaning and uses a nearly waterless process which enhances efficiencies in functioning considerably while making it more sustainable. While for a narrow-body aircraft, the volume of clean water saved in a year would be up to 30,000 litres per aircraft, as much as 75,000 litres of similar water would be saved for cleaning of one wide-body aircraft per year. With fleet augmentation going on in full swing in Air India, the total quantity of clean water likely to be saved in future is humongous.

“The modern system of cleaning reinforces our dedication to efficiency, sustainability, and pioneering advancements at par with industry-best practices. The device has ensured not only better maintenance of our aircraft but will also contribute to a greener environment in sync with the Tata group’s commitment towards more sustainable ways of doing business.”,

S.K. Dash, Chief Technical Officer, Air India.

Aircraft cleaning is a critical aspect of maintenance and relies on time-consuming, resource-intensive and manual engagement. However, automated cleaning is not only time-efficient and sustainable, but it also reduces aerodynamic drag caused due to the accumulation of dirt, dust or grime, ultimately reducing the aircraft weight. This results in enhanced fuel efficiency in the long run while bringing down carbon footprint. This also safeguards against structural damage and prevents corrosion resulting in extending the lifespan of the aircraft too. The superior quality of cleaning will not only enhance the appearance of the aircraft but also ensure a better cleaning by covering even critical areas of the aircraft like the crown, elevator or rudder.

About Air India:

Founded by the legendary JRD Tata, Air India pioneered India’s aviation sector. Since its first flight on October 15, 1932, Air India has built an extensive domestic network with non-stop flights to cities around the world, across the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Far-East, South-East Asia, Australia, and the Gulf. After 69 years as a government-owned enterprise, Air India and Air India Express were welcomed back into the Tata group in January 2022.

Air India is navigating through a major five-year transformation roadmap under the aegis of Vihaan.AI, with an ambition to become a world class airline with an Indian heart. The first phase of this transformation, the taxi phase was recently concluded, and focused on fixing the basics. These included bringing back to service many long grounded aircraft, addition of talent across flying and ground functions, rapid upgradation of technology and strengthening of customer care initiatives amongst others.

A member of Star Alliance, the largest global airline consortium of leading international airlines, Air India offers seamless connectivity and facilities to passengers all over the world.

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