In 2005, Air India placed an order for a whopping 68 aircraft, making it the biggest-ever plane order in the aviation industry. However, what most people don't know is that the deal was sealed in a series of secret meetings that took place in the heart of London.

The talks were held in a top-secret location, with no press allowed. Air India's then-chairman V. Thulasidas, along with his team, were in discussion with the company's plane-supplier Boeing. The two companies had already established a relationship, as Boeing had already supplied Air India with 18 aircraft between 1992 and 2000. The order, which was worth $11 billion, included 43 wide-body and 25 narrow-body aircraft. It was the biggest plane order that Boeing had ever received, and it was a major moment for India's aviation industry. The secret London meetings were part of a larger strategy by Air India to expand its fleet and expand its operations. As part of the deal, Air India also signed a long-term agreement with Boeing to support its fleet. The agreement also allowed Air India to have access to the latest technologies by Boeing and also have access to the company's maintenance services.