Gurugram, Haryana: India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is set to significantly expand its international footprint, with plans to launch direct flights to 10 new global destinations. CEO Pieter Elbers revealed the ambitious strategy on Friday, signalling a major leap for the carrier into long-haul operations and deeper penetration into key international markets.
The airline’s new network will include direct connections to prominent European hubs such as London, Athens, Manchester, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. Beyond Europe, IndiGo is also eyeing Southeast Asia with flights to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and four as-yet-unnamed cities in Central Asia, further solidifying its presence across diverse geographies.
Elbers, speaking at a briefing in New Delhi, attributed the expansion to the burgeoning demand within the Indian aviation sector, which is being buoyed by continuous advancements in airport infrastructure across the nation. This strategic move aims to cater to the growing appetite for international travel among Indian passengers.
The new services are slated to commence as early as July, with IndiGo initiating direct flights from Mumbai to Manchester and Amsterdam. These routes will be operated using leased Boeing 787-9 aircraft, marking a significant milestone for the airline as it ventures into the long-haul segment for the very first time.
Currently, IndiGo boasts an impressive operation, with a revenue exceeding USD 10 billion. The airline operates over 2,300 daily flights, connecting more than 90 domestic and 40 international destinations with a formidable fleet of over 430 aircraft. This latest expansion underscores IndiGo’s intent to become a truly global player in the aviation landscape.