Key Operational Changes
- IndiGo will temporarily discontinue flight operations to and from Manchester effective August 31, 2026
- The airline will return one of six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft to Norse Atlantic Airways
- The returned aircraft was taken on damp/wet lease arrangement
- All remaining long-haul flights will continue to operate as planned
Rationale for Decision
The decision results from multiple industry-wide challenges:
- Continuing international airspace constraints leading to significantly increased flight duration
- Challenging cost environment making operations economically unviable
- Geopolitical developments in the Middle East affecting flight routes
- Rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) costs
- Severe airspace constraints
- Foreign exchange volatility
- Operating costs considerably higher than originally envisaged
Historical Context
IndiGo had damp leased six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from Norse Atlantic Airways in early 2025. The objective was to make strategic inroads to establish the IndiGo brand in the European market ahead of the commencement of services using its own Airbus A350 aircraft.
Management Commentary
Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President - Network Planning & Revenue Management, stated:
- The wide-body aircraft were inducted on a short-term basis to fast-track connectivity to high-potential long-haul destinations
- The Manchester route witnessed very encouraging demand response
- The discontinuation is temporary in nature
- The airline looks forward to serving this route again at the earliest viable opportunity
- Exploring innovative solutions to continue collaboration with Norse Atlantic Airways
Customer Impact
IndiGo will notify affected customers in advance and assist them with all possible options, including:
- Alternate travel arrangements
- Refunds where applicable
Company Background
IndiGo operates with a fleet of 400+ aircraft, operating around 2200+ daily flights connecting 95+ domestic and 40+ international destinations. The airline welcomed 124 million customers in CY25 and was named 'Best Airline in India and South Asia' by Skytrax at the World Airline Awards 2025.