IndiGo Airlines (6E, Delhi International) has officially entered the widebody market with a significant order from Airbus. The Indian low-cost carrier has confirmed the purchase of thirty A350-900 aircraft, along with options for an additional 70 units. The delivery of these widebodies is scheduled to begin in 2027, marking a pivotal expansion of IndiGo’s fleet capabilities.
While IndiGo has not finalized the seating configuration for these aircraft, the move into widebody operations follows prolonged market speculation and the airline’s interim arrangements, which include the damp lease of two Boeing 777-300(ER)s from Turkish Airlines. This strategic order allows IndiGo to further diversify its operational scope, traditionally concentrated on narrowbody and regional aircraft.
IndiGo’s existing fleet includes a robust lineup of Airbus and ATR aircraft, demonstrating significant growth in its short to medium-haul segments. The airline currently operates twenty A320-200s, 192 A320-200Ns, ninety-four A321-200NXs, and forty-five ATR72-600s, along with three converted A321-200(P2F) freighters. Notably, IndiGo has substantial outstanding orders comprising 273 A320-200Ns, 608 A321-200NXs, sixty-nine A321-200NY(XLR)s (set to start service in 2025), and five additional ATR72-600s.
In 2023, IndiGo placed a record-setting order for 500 A320neo aircraft, marking the largest-ever aircraft commitment by volume. This order underscores IndiGo’s aggressive growth strategy and its confidence in the A320neo family to meet its operational demands.
Additionally, to address ongoing challenges with Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines, IndiGo has arranged wet leases for thirteen A320-200s from various SmartLynx entities and a damp lease agreement for five Boeing 737-8s from Qatar Airways. These measures are part of the airline’s broader strategy to ensure continuity in its operations amid fleet modernization and expansion efforts.
As IndiGo prepares for the introduction of the A350-900, it stands poised to enhance its international route network and increase its competitive edge in global aviation markets. This move into widebody operations is expected to transform IndiGo’s operational dynamics and offer new opportunities for long-haul travel to and from India.
