Strategic Initiative: Conclusion of Wide-Body Damp Lease Operations

InterGlobe Aviation Limited (IndiGo) announced it will discontinue its wide-body operations effective 25 October 2026 and conclude its damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways effective 31 October 2026. This decision is part of a comprehensive review prompted by significant changes in the operating environment.

Reasons for Discontinuation

The decision was driven by a challenging operating environment triggered by ongoing geopolitical tensions, which resulted in:

  • Significant escalation in costs
  • Airspace constraints
  • Elevated fuel costs
  • Currency pressures

These factors have collectively impacted route efficiency, schedule integrity, connectivity, and overall competitiveness, creating operational and economic challenges for the wide-body operations.

Route Transition Plan

  • Mumbai-Amsterdam flights will transition to be operated using Airbus A321XLR aircraft effective 25 October 2026
  • Services to and from London Heathrow will be temporarily discontinued until the delivery of IndiGo's Airbus A350-900s

Background and Original Objectives

The damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways for six Boeing 787-9 aircraft was initiated in early 2025 with the objective of:

  • Starting limited long-haul operations to fast-track learning
  • Developing capabilities
  • Establishing brand presence in preparation for Airbus A350 operations
  • Commencing services to UK and European markets
  • Accelerating development of operational capabilities, commercial expertise, and customer insights

Achievements During the Lease Period

Over the operational period, IndiGo built critical competencies across:

  • Long-haul network planning
  • Customer experience
  • Crew operations
  • Maintenance
  • Airport handling
  • Revenue management
  • International partnerships

Management Commentary

Abhijit Dasgupta, SVP, Planning and Revenue Management, IndiGo stated: "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. This project was never solely about serving specific routes but laying the foundation for our long-haul operations in future. The invaluable operational learnings and strong customer response during this journey have strengthened our conviction in our long-term international strategy."

Future Strategy and Commitment

The airline reaffirmed its long-term long-haul growth strategy and remains committed to:

  • Expanding global footprint across key mid and long-haul markets
  • Strengthening European network through services using Airbus A321XLR
  • Maintaining internal momentum to prepare for own widebody services
  • Continuing with long-term international ambitions

Customer Transition Plan

The airline will work closely with affected customers to offer suitable alternatives, including:

  • Alternate travel arrangements
  • Refunds, as applicable
  • Ensuring a smooth transition process

Partnership Acknowledgment

IndiGo expressed appreciation to Norse Atlantic Airways for its valued partnership and to customers, employees, and partners for their trust, commitment, and support during this journey.

Company Background

IndiGo is India's preferred and amongst the fastest growing carriers in the world with:

  • Fleet of 430+ aircraft
  • Nearly 2200 daily flights
  • Connectivity to 95+ domestic and 40+ international destinations
  • 123 million customers welcomed in FY26
  • Named 'Best Airline in India and South Asia' by Skytrax at World Airline Awards 2025
  • Sixth Most Punctual Airline in Asia-Pacific in 2025 by Cirium