IndiGo is making a bold move into the long-haul market by launching direct flights to Amsterdam and Manchester in July 2025. As a result, the airline is strengthening its presence in Europe and reinforcing its ambition to become a global aviation leader. With these new routes, IndiGo is bridging travel gaps and offering more seamless connectivity for passengers.
To operate these long-haul flights, IndiGo will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft on a wet lease from Norse Atlantic Airways. Consequently, passengers will experience more comfort, as these planes offer 338 seats, including IndiGoStretch seating for enhanced legroom. Additionally, the airline plans to add three more Boeing 787-9 jets to its fleet by late 2025. This decision ensures smoother international operations. Currently, IndiGo mainly flies narrow-body Airbus A320 aircraft, but it has adapted its strategy to meet the growing demand for long-distance travel.
Furthermore, IndiGo is expanding beyond short-haul routes to establish itself as a strong competitor in global travel. Initially, it planned to serve Athens, Rome, and Seoul using Airbus A321XLR aircraft. However, certification delays for these fuel-efficient jets led the airline to accelerate its transition to wide-body aircraft. Therefore, in 2024, IndiGo secured an order for 30 Airbus A350-900 jets, which will enter service in 2027. These aircraft will further enhance the airline’s ability to offer non-stop intercontinental flights.
Moreover, IndiGo introduced its first wide-body service on March 1, 2025, with Boeing 787 flights between Delhi and Bangkok. This move marks a new chapter in the airline’s expansion, offering a more comfortable experience for passengers. At the same time, the airline has also secured a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways to strengthen its fleet. Under this deal, Norse Atlantic handles aircraft maintenance, while IndiGo manages crew operations.
In addition to fleet expansion, IndiGo is leveraging strategic partnerships to grow its network. For example, a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines allows passengers to access over 35 destinations across Europe and North America. By integrating wide-body aircraft and expanding its global reach, IndiGo is transforming from a regional leader into a serious long-haul competitor.
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