Mumbai, February 26: IndiGo has announced plans to bolster its international expansion by adding three more Boeing 787-9 aircraft to its fleet under a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways. This move aligns with the airline's strategy to launch flights to Europe by mid-summer 2025.
Currently, the Gurugram-based carrier operates two widebody Boeing 777 aircraft, leased from Turkish Airlines, for its flights to Istanbul from Delhi and Mumbai. Earlier this month, IndiGo had signed an agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways for the lease of one Boeing 787. The delivery of this aircraft is on schedule, with operations set to commence on the Delhi-Bangkok route from March 1, 2025.
Under the latest agreement, IndiGo will receive three additional Boeing 787-9 aircraft, scheduled to arrive in India in the second half of 2025. These aircraft will be deployed on long-haul international routes, enhancing the airline’s global connectivity.
A damp lease arrangement provides the aircraft along with maintenance support, but the airline supplies its own crew and insurance. Initially agreed for a six-month lease, the deal includes an option to extend up to 18 months, subject to regulatory approvals. IndiGo and Norse Atlantic Airways have also expressed interest in further collaborations to expand their partnership.
Strengthening Global Presence
IndiGo’s CEO, Pieter Elbers, highlighted the significance of the airline’s European expansion, emphasizing the company’s commitment to evolving as a major global player by 2030."As we execute our broader strategy to strengthen and extend our international network, we are steadily advancing towards our vision of becoming a global player, firmly rooted in India and driven by continuous expansion," Elbers said.
Once all four Boeing 787 aircraft are inducted, IndiGo’s widebody fleet will total six aircraft—comprising four B787s and two B777s. Currently, IndiGo operates a fleet of 355 aircraft.
Apart from leasing widebody aircraft for international expansion, IndiGo has also placed a firm order for 30 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, with an option for an additional 70 aircraft. Deliveries for these Airbus planes are set to begin in 2027, further reinforcing IndiGo’s long-haul capabilities.
This strategic expansion signals IndiGo’s ambition to tap into the growing demand for international travel and position itself as a dominant force in the global aviation market.
Last updated by a enewsx: