IndiGo on Friday announced that it will discontinue its wide-body operations from October 25, citing a challenging operating environment driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions. The airline also said it will end its damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways by the end of October, while maintaining that its long-term international expansion strategy remains unchanged.
As part of the transition, IndiGo said its Mumbai-Amsterdam route will continue to be operated using the Airbus A321XLR from October 25, while flights to and from London Heathrow will be temporarily suspended until the airline begins inducting its Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
Geopolitical challenges prompt operational shift
IndiGo had entered into a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways in early 2025 for six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft to launch limited long-haul operations. The arrangement was intended to help the airline gain operational experience, strengthen its international presence and build capabilities before introducing its own Airbus A350 fleet.
According to the airline, the programme enabled it to develop expertise in long-haul network planning, crew management, maintenance, airport operations, customer experience, revenue management and international partnerships while operating flights to destinations in the UK and Europe.
However, IndiGo said the operating environment has changed significantly since the initiative began. It pointed to airspace restrictions, higher fuel prices, currency fluctuations and rising operational costs as the primary reasons for discontinuing the leased wide-body operations.
The airline added that these factors had impacted route efficiency, schedule reliability, connectivity and overall competitiveness, leading to a comprehensive review of the programme.
Long-haul expansion plans unchanged
"The global aviation industry continues to navigate ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, necessitating a prudent deployment of resources in the short term while preserving long-term strategic objectives," said Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President, Planning and Revenue Management, IndiGo.
He noted that the Boeing 787 programme was never intended to be a permanent solution but rather a stepping stone to prepare the airline for its future long-haul operations.
Dasgupta added that the experience gained through the initiative, along with encouraging customer response, has reinforced IndiGo's confidence in its long-term international growth strategy.
Airbus to support European operations
IndiGo said it remains committed to expanding its presence across key mid- and long-haul international markets. Until the arrival of its Airbus A350-900 fleet, the airline will strengthen its European network using the Airbus A321XLR while continuing preparations for the next phase of its long-haul expansion.
The airline also thanked Norse Atlantic Airways for its partnership and expressed appreciation to its customers, employees and business partners for their support throughout the programme.
Rebooking and refunds for affected passengers
IndiGo said it will work closely with passengers affected by the suspension of London Heathrow services and other operational changes. Customers will be offered suitable alternatives, including rebooking on other flights or refunds, wherever applicable, to ensure a smooth transition.
