India’s premier airline, IndiGo, has initiated its global expansion strategy with the introduction of its inaugural wide-body Boeing 787 aircraft. The first flight departed from Delhi to Bangkok today.
This significant event was commemorated at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport by IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers along with his team.
Improved comfort for long-distance flights
The newly inaugurated Delhi-Bangkok route will be served by IndiGo’s wide-body aircraft, featuring IndiGoStretch. This amenity will elevate passenger comfort on long-distance flights.
The airline also provides specially curated meals crafted by chefs from Oberoi Catering Services and a range of beverages from Sula Vineyards as part of the IndiGoStretch service, marking its initial step towards introducing Indian brands to travelers around the globe.
To temporarily enhance its capacity, IndiGo has acquired the Boeing 787-9 from Norse Atlantic, ahead of the anticipated deliveries of its own long-range aircraft, such as the A321 XLRs and A350s. The A321 XLRs are expected to join the fleet in the upcoming financial year, while the A350s are planned for arrival in 2027.
Boeing 787-9 aircraft feature spacious double-aisle layout
The Boeing 787-9 aircraft are designed with a spacious double-aisle configuration that accommodates a total of 338 seats, including 56 IndiGoStretch seats arranged in a 2x3x2 layout, offering a generous seat pitch of 43 inches, alongside 282 standard economy seats, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for passengers.
The economy section consists of 282 seats arranged in a comfortable 3x3x3 configuration with a seat pitch of 31 inches. The aircraft will be leased for an initial term of six months, extendable up to 18 months, pending regulatory approvals.
IndiGo’s flights to Europe commencing mid-summer
In addition, IndiGo intends to deploy the aircraft on a European route starting “mid-summer.” Although the airline currently does not operate direct flights to any European destinations, entering the continent has been a long-term aspiration for the airline.
“As India’s aviation sector experiences rapid transformation to accommodate the unprecedented growth in travel demand, IndiGo is well-positioned to spearhead this expansion. The early induction of our wide-body aircraft represents a significant milestone in our journey. Beginning with the Delhi-Bangkok route, we plan to extend our services to Europe starting mid-summer,” stated IndiGo’s Chief Executive Officer Pieter Elbers.
Collaboration with Norse Atlantic Airways bolsters international network
IndiGo’s CEO Pieter Elbers remarked that their partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways is crucial for strengthening their international network and establishing a presence in the European market.
He emphasized that this expansion aligns with their strategic commitment to both Indian and international growth. Elbers also highlighted the rising demand for international travel to and from India as a driving factor behind the airline’s expanding global presence.
IndiGo has announced intentions to broaden its fleet with three additional Boeing 787-9 aircraft. These planes will be acquired through a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways and are expected to arrive in India during the latter half of 2025.
The aircraft will be leased for an initial term of six months, extendable up to 18 months, pending regulatory approvals.
Mumbai to Seychelles flight schedule
Indigo has unveiled direct flights connecting Mumbai to the African paradise of Seychelles. This new service will commence on March 22, 2025, with Indigo operating four flights weekly between Mumbai and Seychelles. This route will not only enhance connectivity to this stunning tourist destination but will also render it more accessible and affordable for Indian travelers.
Flight number 6E 1855 will fly from Mumbai to Seychelles on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is scheduled to depart from Mumbai at 07:20 am and reach Seychelles at 10:35 am. Flight number 6E 1856 will travel from Seychelles to Mumbai on the same days. It will leave Seychelles at 18:15 pm and arrive in Mumbai at 0:35 pm the following day. Seychelles, an archipelago situated off the East African coast, is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and verdant forests.
IndiGo’s 39th international destination
Vinay Malhotra, Global Sales Head at IndiGo, expressed, “We are incredibly excited to introduce direct flights from Mumbai to Seychelles, making this exquisite holiday destination more reachable for our customers. With Seychelles now part of our network as the 39th international destination, IndiGo reaffirms its dedication to providing Indian travelers with a diverse array of domestic and international locations. We are confident that this route will be a transformative option for Indian travelers eager to explore this gorgeous island nation.”
IndiGo’s expanding fleet
“IndiGo will persist in seeking opportunities to acquire additional aircraft,” stated the airline, highlighting its commitment to expanding its fleet in support of its ambitious international growth plans.
With a current fleet exceeding 400 aircraft and approximately 2,200 daily flights, IndiGo has been consistently enhancing its international footprint. The incorporation of the Boeing 787-9 is anticipated to bolster its long-haul capabilities and furnish more options for travelers between India and Southeast Asia.
On the Delhi-Bangkok route, IndiGo provides passengers with priority check-in, flexible boarding, advance seat selection, no convenience fee, and an improved baggage allowance of 30kg for check-in plus 12kg for cabin baggage. Bookings are now available through IndiGo’s direct channels and aggregator websites.
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