The Indian government will retain the Air India B747-400s as its choice for VIP operations following a dispute over whether Air India (AI, Delhi International) or the Indian Air Force (IFC, Delhi International) would operate their planned replacements - a pair of B777-300(ER)s.

The Economic Times indicates New Delhi had planned to place two upgraded B777s, sourced from Air India's fleet, with the Air Force which would then have operated them with Air India providing MRO services. However, government is now in a quandary over whether to allow Air India to use the aircraft for commercial purposes when not used for official duties.

As such, the dilemma has affected on which register the aircraft will be recorded: if they are to be used for commercial purposes then the civilian, but if only used for VIP flights, then the military would suffice.

A decision is not expected any time soon.