Air India Logo Removed From Nariman Point Building

The iconic Air India logo that dominated the Mumbai skyline for decades has been removed from the 23-storey Air India Building at Nariman Point. The large red-and-yellow signage, measuring around 38 by 24 feet, was dismantled and removed from the sea-facing landmark earlier this week.

The logo, made from perforated aluminium sheets, was taken down by a team of around 8–10 Public Works Department (PWD) workers over nearly a week. The workers carried out the operation in stages while dealing with strong coastal winds and intermittent rain. They used safety harnesses, helmets and scaffolding to dismantle the structure.

The removal was particularly challenging because the building’s terrace does not have a parapet wall. The perforated design of the logo had originally allowed wind to pass through, reducing the pressure exerted on the large sign. Once dismantled, the logo was broken into around 40 pieces and moved to the building’s 22nd floor.

The removal comes months after ownership of the iconic building formally passed to the Maharashtra government. The 56-year-old tower, long associated with Air India and its presence in Mumbai, was transferred to the state government in June 2026 for ₹1,601 crore by Air India Assets Holding Limited (AIAHL).

The building is now set to be converted into offices for the Maharashtra government, with various departments expected to occupy its floors. It could also be used for cabinet meetings. The state has reportedly earmarked around ₹181 crore for repairs and renovation of the landmark. A new design to replace the Air India logo has also been commissioned from the Sir J.J. School of Art.

Suggestions discussed for the replacement have included the Maharashtra government emblem and the Ashoka emblem. The removal of the logo carries significance beyond a routine building makeover. For decades, the Air India Building and its distinctive signage were closely associated with Mumbai’s Nariman Point skyline.

The iconic building was a prominent part of Mumbai's landscape, and its logo was a recognizable symbol of the city. The removal of the logo marks the end of an era for Mumbai's skyline. The building's new role as a government office will likely change its significance and purpose in the city.

The Maharashtra government's plans for the building include using it as an office for the Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis. The building's location on Marine Drive offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, making it a prime location for government offices.

In conclusion, the removal of the Air India logo from the Nariman Point building marks a significant change in Mumbai's skyline. The building's new role as a government office will likely bring new life to the area, but it also marks the end of an era for the iconic Air India logo.

The removal of the logo is a reminder that change is a constant part of a city's evolution. As Mumbai continues to grow and develop, it is likely that other iconic landmarks will also undergo changes. However, the memory of the Air India logo will remain a part of Mumbai's history and identity.

The Maharashtra government's plans for the building are a testament to the city's ability to adapt and evolve. The new design for the building's logo will likely become a new symbol of the city, and the building's new role as a government office will likely bring new energy to the area.

In the end, the removal of the Air India logo is a bittersweet moment for Mumbai. While it marks the end of an era, it also signals a new beginning for the city. As Mumbai continues to grow and develop, it is likely that new icons and landmarks will emerge, but the memory of the Air India logo will always be a part of the city's history.