End of an Iconic Era
This aircraft, aged 31.4 years, holds a storied legacy within Air India’s fleet. Known globally for its distinctive humpbacked silhouette and massive size, the Boeing 747 was once the pride of Air India’s international operations. For decades, it connected India to global capitals, carried dignitaries, and symbolized the ambition of the national carrier. With this auction, Air India officially closes the curtain on its Jumbo Jet chapter — a poignant moment for aviation historians and enthusiasts alike.
Auction Details and Participation Guidelines
The auction process has been carefully structured to ensure transparency and order. The bidding will open at 9:00 PM IST on May 6, 2025, with a validity period of 30 calendar days for accepted bids. Interested parties must submit all required documentation by April 30, 2025, to secure access for the single-day inspection scheduled on May 5, 2025. The inspection window is divided into two time slots: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 1:30 PM–3:30 PM, at Air India’s facility in Mumbai (BOM).
Prospective bidders must meet several documentation requirements, including:
- Copy of Aadhaar card (original must be presented on inspection day)
- Photographs of inspection personnel
- Original company letter requesting an export entry pass
- Original and copy of Indian passport (if applicable)
Material specifications will be shared separately, and the auction will operate on an “AS IS WHERE IS” basis, with a ±10% quantity tolerance.
Auction Format and Logistics
The auction will follow an “English No Ties” format, running for a minimum of 60 minutes. An auto-extension feature will allow for 3-minute increments if bidding activity continues near the scheduled close. Upon a successful bid, the winning buyer will be responsible for all loading and transportation arrangements. Air India has stated a delivery timeline of 60 calendar days from the issuance of the delivery order.
Buyers should also be aware of strict airport security regulations — post-auction inspections are prohibited, and photography during the on-site inspection is not allowed.
A Unique Opportunity for Collectors and Recyclers
While the sale marks the end of a storied aircraft’s service life, it presents a rare opportunity for aviation collectors, museums, or recycling firms to acquire a piece of India’s aviation legacy. Whether preserved for heritage or repurposed for parts, the VT-ESO represents more than just an aircraft — it embodies decades of Air India’s ambitions and achievements in the skies.
The auction is officially registered under Forward Auction number M/30210320, with Air India Limited–Mumbai listed as the seller. All applicable GST and dispatch-related charges will be determined at the time of delivery.
As India’s aviation landscape continues to modernize, the farewell to the Boeing 747 signals not just the end of an aircraft’s lifecycle but the evolution of an airline — and perhaps the beginning of a new era for those looking to preserve its memory.