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Indian Express
06-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
With Manchester and Amsterdam services, IndiGo boards the long-haul flight to chase its ‘global airline' ambitions
After establishing dominance in Indian skies and building a dense short-haul international network over 18-plus years, the country's largest airline IndiGo has finally forayed into the long-haul segment, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the carrier's evolution. Early July, the airline started flying non-stop to Manchester and Amsterdam from Mumbai, a milestone in its ambition to become a global airline by 2030 with its 'internationalisation strategy' as a key cornerstone. The plan involves product development to serve specific markets, building a global network by growing mid- and long-haul operations and deepening codeshare partnerships with global airlines, and inducting long-range narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, and all that while maintaining cost leadership. IndiGo—for long seen as a classic low-cost carrier (LCC)—is shaping into what its chief executive Pieter Elbers likes to call a 'fit-for-purpose' airline—one with varied product offerings in line with the demands of specific market segments, instead of the typical budget airline. Over the past year, IndiGo launched a tailor-made business class product—IndiGo Stretch—on select domestic routes, and a loyalty programme. The airline felt that there were sizable market segments within India where these offerings would work well. And beyond that, these were also part of the groundwork for the carrier's log-haul operations. On its just-launched long-haul flights—currently using damp-leased Boeing 787-9 aircraft from Norse Atlantic—IndiGo has hot meals and in-flight entertainment included for all flyers. It is also offering the international version of its Stretch product complete with complimentary alcoholic drinks service, choice of three-course hot meals, some free amenities, and even lounge access. And this could very well be the broad template for IndiGo's long-haul operations. 'I don't think our product here is what one can label or classify as an LCC or a ULCC (ultra-low-cost carrier) product. We have hot meals and baggage included. So, it's a fit-for-purpose product and operation. For a nine-hour or 10-hour flight, we choose to have a product where food is included, instead of going through all the complexities of selling it on board. Does it mean that we have to do it all across the network, and for our five and six-hour flights? No, not at all. The fit-for-purpose for 10 hours looks different than that for four or five or six hours,' Elbers told The Indian Express after IndiGo's inaugural Mumbai-Manchester flight. 'I believe very much that IndiGo should be a fit-for-purpose airline. That means that the hundreds of routes we operate in the nation itself should have a very cost compelling basis, and with that, a very attractive price. But some of the other routes in the nation, like its busiest, might need something more, and that's why we started with IndiGo Stretch. And the same goes for these European flights. It's fit for purpose and a value-for-money proposition. It's going to be very competitive with some of the fares offered by our competitors. And importantly, it's a direct connection,' the IndiGo CEO added. IndiGo sees significant potential in the international segment, given that Indian airlines account for 45 per cent of India's international air passenger traffic, while overseas carriers account for around 55 per cent. When it comes to India-Europe passenger traffic, overseas carriers have an even higher share of around 70 per cent, some of which is up for the taking, believes IndiGo. As part of its 'internationalisation strategy', IndiGo plans to induct extra-long-range narrow-body Airbus A321 XLR aircraft starting this year and wide-body Airbus A350 planes from 2027 to operate medium- and long-range international flights. With the A350s, IndiGo should be in a position to launch non-stop services between India and North America. But Elbers—a former KLM CEO whose nearly three years at IndiGo have been focused on internationalisation—does not want to wait for its own long-range aircraft to fuel its international expansion. He and the airline are in a hurry to emerge as trailblazers on a number of long-haul routes. Therefore, IndiGo decided to enter the long-haul market using damp-leased planes. IndiGo's agreements with Norse Atlantic are for six Boeing 787-9 wide-body aircraft, one of which has been inducted and is operating the thrice weekly Mumbai-Manchester and Mumbai-Amsterdam services. The remaining five jets will be inducted over the course of this year and early next year. Over the past two to three years, IndiGo has expanded its international network by adding destinations in regions including Central Asia and the Caucasus, Southeast Asia, and Africa using its narrow-body fleet. Europe, where Air India is the only Indian carrier that operates direct flights, was expected to be the next frontier for IndiGo. According to Elbers, the fact that 65 per cent of the world's population lives within the range of IndiGo's existing narrow-body fleet underscores the potential of international expansion within this radius and beyond. In addition to Manchester and Amsterdam, IndiGo will be adding another eight international destinations in the current financial year (2025-26), growing its international network to 51 destinations. It intends to launch services to London, Copenhagen, Athens, Siem Reap, and four undisclosed Central Asian destinations. Barring Athens, the destinations in Europe and the UK are expected to be operated using the Norse Atlantic aircraft that IndiGo is taking on damp lease. Flights to Athens will be operated using the Airbus A321 XLR aircraft that IndiGo expects to start inducting in the current financial year. Siem Reap and the new destinations in Central Asia are likely to be operated using IndiGo's mainline fleet of Airbus A320 family jets. 'When it comes to building the international network the opportunity is enormous and we have indeed demonstrated that with Central Asia, and even some places in Southeast Asia. But the way I would like to see the network developed is we start to expand the range step by step. You will continue to see a lot of new routes in, let me call it the region, Southeast Asia, Gulf…So, we are expanding the density of the regional international network, and at the same time continuously expand the borders of that network and stretch the scope of where we fly,' Elbers said. IndiGo also sees its codeshare partnerships with other international carriers as a tool for network development as it would help the airline study the traffic flows and demand and plan its own long-haul network densification over the coming years. Specific to IndiGo's foray into Europe and the UK is the carrier's recently announced partnership with Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic, and Air France-KLM, which will help it offer connections to other points in Europe and the US from points that IndiGo would be flying to in Europe. 'I think partnerships, until a few years back, were very much foreign airlines flying to India and then putting their passengers on our domestic network, benefiting from IndiGo's enormous domestic network. I think we are now making it much more reciprocal. So, for example, KLM has 30 destinations in India connecting on their flights from some major Indian cities. Now, we're going to have connections on KLM from Amsterdam. With Virgin (Atlantic), same story. We'll have connections with Virgin here in Manchester itself. So, it's going to be more reciprocal now, and it's surely going to help the further development of our network,' Elbers said. The reporter was in Manchester at IndiGo's invitation for the launch of the airline's Mumbai-Manchester non-stop service. Sukalp Sharma is a Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express and writes on a host of subjects and sectors, notably energy and aviation. He has over 13 years of experience in journalism with a body of work spanning areas like politics, development, equity markets, corporates, trade, and economic policy. He considers himself an above-average photographer, which goes well with his love for travel. ... Read More
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
IndiGo direct flights to UK: Airline makes long-haul debut on Mumbai–Manchester route; check schedule
IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, has launched its first direct long-haul service between Mumbai and Manchester, marking a significant milestone in its international expansion strategy. The thrice-weekly flights will operate using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft under a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways, the company said Tuesday. The new route signals IndiGo's entry into the long-haul segment and aligns with its broader global growth strategy titled 'Towards New Heights and across New Frontiers'. The service is expected to cater to business travellers, students, tourists, and the Indian diaspora in the UK, while boosting economic, cultural, and educational exchanges between the two countries, ET reported. 'As we embark on our long-haul journey with the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Manchester, this moment marks our transition from a successful regional carrier to one with growing global relevance,' said Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer of IndiGo. 'This new service, operated by our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, damp-leased from Norse Atlantic Airways, ensures greater comfort, seamless connectivity, and choice to our customers. We are also delighted to offer specially curated complimentary hot meals and beverages to all passengers, with an elevated dining and service experience. This milestone is also a reflection of IndiGo's growing global ambition and its contribution to India's emergence as a global aviation hub. We are confident that this route will not only serve the large diaspora but also strengthen the economic and cultural ties between the two countries,' Elbers added. The aircraft features a two-class configuration with 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy seats, each equipped with seatback screens providing 300 hours of in-flight entertainment. All passengers will receive complimentary hot meals featuring regional Indian cuisine curated from domestic brands. Flight schedule (local times): 6E 0031: Departs Mumbai at 04:25, arrives in Manchester at 10:05 (Tue, Thu, Sat) 6E 0032: Departs Manchester at 12:05, arrives in Mumbai at 01:55 the next day The Manchester launch is part of IndiGo's broader FY25 internationalisation plan, which includes launching services to 10 new overseas destinations, such as London, Athens, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Siem Reap, and four Central Asian cities. IndiGo has stated it aims to grow its international network from 40 to 50 destinations by the end of the financial year. 'There is tremendous opportunity in Indian aviation, where surging demand is being matched by rapid infrastructure growth,' Elbers had said in May. IndiGo currently operates more than 2,300 flights daily with a fleet exceeding 430 aircraft, serving over 90 domestic and 40 international locations. The airline has also planned over 100 new routes for the current financial year. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Indian Express
01-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
IndiGo commences operations on its first long-haul route with direct flights between Mumbai and Manchester
IndiGo, India's largest and most preferred airline inaugurated its first ever, direct long-haul service connecting Mumbai and Manchester, United Kingdom. This is a significant move that paves the way for IndiGo to become a global airline offering enhanced connectivity between India and key global markets. This also signifies successful execution of IndiGo's internationalisation strategy – 'Towards New Heights and across New Frontiers'. This new direct connection will significantly enhance accessibility between Mumbai, India's financial capital, and Manchester, a major economic and cultural hub in Northern England. The service is expected to benefit business travellers, tourists, students, and the Indian diaspora residing in the United Kingdom, fostering stronger economic, educational, and cultural ties. IndiGo will operate 3x weekly flights making it the only airline to offer connectivity between the two cities. Mr. Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said, 'As we embark on our long-haul journey with the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Manchester, this moment marks our transition from a successful regional carrier to one with growing global relevance. This new service, operated by our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, damp-leased from Norse Atlantic Airways, ensures greater comfort, seamless connectivity, and choice to our customers. We are also delighted to offer specially curated complimentary hot meals and beverages to all passengers, with an elevated dining and service experience. This milestone is also a reflection of IndiGo's growing global ambition and its contribution to India's emergence as a global aviation hub. We are confident that this route will not only serve the large diaspora but also strengthen the economic and cultural ties between the two countries.' The Mumbai–Manchester route will be operated by IndiGo's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft (on damp lease from Norse Atlantic Airways) featuring a two-class cabin configuration comprising 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy seats. All seats feature seatback screens for in-flight entertainment – around 300 hours of content with movies and TV shows across a balanced mix of comedy, romance, drama and action. Celebrating India and its unique cuisines, specially curated complimentary hot meals and beverages, by iconic home-grown Indian brands, will be served to all customers on our long-haul routes. Flight Schedule: IndiGo continues to expand its international footprint with a modern fleet and a commitment to operational excellence. IndiGo has been recently recognised as the 'Best Airline in India and South Asia' at the prestigious 2025 World Airline Awards by Skytrax. – Customers in the stretch cabin are offered welcome drinks that remind them of home. – Authentic Indian flavours along with choice of international menu. – Customers flying in the stretch cabin get four meal choices – vegetarian Indian and international, non-vegetarian Indian and international meals – The default meal for economy class is thoughtfully crafted Indian vegetarian delicacies, however non-vegetarian meals can be pre-booked at no cost – Alcoholic beverages from celebrated Indian brands like Sula, Amrut, Stranger & Sons – complimentary in the Stretch cabin and available to buy in economy class. – Exclusive overlays on board, enabling its customers to experience tradition, style and stories as they fly with the airline. Every overlay (complimentary in the Stretch cabin and available to buy at a nominal cost in economy class) brings alive a legacy of craft, region, and design. The airline also offers specially designed pillows on board. – To make every journey restful, IndiGo offers its calming Sleep Spray on board. These are thoughtfully blended with Lavender and Vetiver — two natural ingredients long celebrated for their relaxing properties. A quick spritz on the pillow or sleep mask helps ease the mind and invites peaceful sleep. – Sustainable dental kits on board packed with a wheat straw toothbrush and vegan, cruelty-free toothpaste. – Specially developed for IndiGoStretch, 4700 BC introduced Blue Chips – a bold flavour for the skies. Made from naturally blue corn, these artisanal chips are a crunchy celebration of quality and innovation. – As a parting gift, IndiGo offers a sweet tribute to India's vibrant spirit with a tricolour mithai, blending nostalgia and indulgence in every bite. Crafted in three distinct layers — creamy white chocolate sandwiched between tangy green and zesty orange aam papad — it's a playful fusion of traditional flavours and modern flair. IndiGo is India's preferred and amongst the fastest growing carriers in the world and has a simple philosophy: offer fares that are affordable, flights that are on time, and provide a courteous and hassle-free travel experience across its unparalleled network. With its fleet of 400+ aircraft, the airline is operating around 2200+ daily flights, connecting 90+ domestic and 40+ international destinations, inducted 58 aircraft in 2024 and welcomed over 118 million customers in FY25. IndiGo was also named the 'Best Airline in India and South Asia' by Skytrax at the World Airline Awards 2025. For more information more information, please visit or download our mobile app. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Bangkok Post
30-06-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Indian travel demand to prop up Thai aviation
India's rapid economic growth will help support Southeast Asia's aviation industry, including the Thai aviation sector, according to Indian carrier IndiGo, which plans to introduce its new business class seats to Bangkok and Phuket. Pieter Elbers, chief executive of IndiGo, said that whenever new destinations in Southeast Asia were introduced or the capacity of those routes increased, IndiGo always saw strong travel demand. He said the unique geography of India provides a good opportunity for the airline to operate flights of 4-5 hours with good products and offerings to the region. India is currently the fifth-largest outbound market globally, and is also poised to become the world's third-largest economy by 2027. Its young population and growing middle class would help to reinforce the aviation industry. Indigo has become the world's largest client for aircraft, having placed an order for 500 single-aisle planes from the Airbus A320 family in 2023. Mr Elbers said there are still untapped opportunities on international routes, as India only has a rate of 0.06 international seats per capita, almost half the rate for China, which has a rate of 0.11 international seats per capita. He said IndiGo has been expanding in the Southeast Asian region, including in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. In 2024, it began operating the IndiGoStretch business class on major domestic routes in India, such as from Delhi to Mumbai and Bengaluru. Last month, it started rolling out the new class to other regional routes from Delhi and Mumbai to Bangkok, Singapore, Phuket and Dubai. Mr Elbers said demand from both Indian and Thai passengers for flights between Bangkok and Indian cities is roughly the same. However, on the airline's latest route to Krabi, the carrier is attracting mostly Indian tourists. The airline uses 787-9 Dreamliners on the Delhi-Bangkok route. This type of aircraft is among several wide-body aircraft it operates under a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic. At the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) annual general summit in Delhi last month, IndiGo announced an additional firm order of 30 wide-body A350-900s, on top of an existing 30 firm orders. At present, IndiGo operates domestic flights across 91 cities with 500 routes in India, securing the largest market share in the country, as well as 41 international destinations. It aims to expand to 95 domestic destinations and 51 international destinations by next year. Its current available seat kilometres (ASK) on international routes is close to 30% and the airline aims to increase the rate to 40% by 2030. The airline carried over 118 million passengers during the fiscal year that ended in March 2025. The number is expected to double by 2030, Mr Elbers said.
Indian Express
24-06-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Domestic flight fares as low as Rs 1,499 with IndiGo's annual ‘Monsoon Sale' starting today
IndiGo, one of the largest Asian airlines, Tuesday announced its annual 'Monsoon Sale,' with domestic flight priced as low as Rs 1,499, and international flights priced at Rs 4,399. The limited-time sale also offers exclusive discounts on a range of add-ons opted by passengers travelling both on IndiGo's domestic and international flights. The sale is valid for bookings made between June 24 and June 29 for travel between July 1 and September 21 this year. While the sale is on, customers can book all-inclusive one-way domestic flights with fares starting at Rs 1,499, and international flights with fares from Rs 4,399. For added comfort and extra legroom at an exceptional value, passengers can choose IndiGoStretch provision while booking, with fares starting Rs 9,999. Besides opting for flights at a discounted price, travelers can also avail add-on services at upto 50 per cent off. Travelers can now enjoy upto 50 per cent off on pre-paid excess baggage for domestic flights, and on 15 kg, 20 kg, and 30 kg bag allowances for international flights. IndiGo is also offering upto 50 per cent off on its 'Fast Forward' service, which includes priority check-in and anytime boarding, on select domestic and international flights. Meanwhile, standard seat selection is available at prices as low as Rs 99 on select domestic and international flights. Emergency XL (Extra Legroom) seats are available on domestic flights at rates starting at Rs 500. Both 6E Prime and 6E Seat & Eat services on select domestic and international flights are also available at upto 30 per cent off. Lastly, domestic travellers can secure their bookings with a Zero Cancellation Plan starting at Rs 299.
