IndiGo to Terminate Widebody Operations Leased from Norse Atlantic Airways
IndiGo has announced that it will discontinue its widebody aircraft operations starting October 25 and conclude its lease agreement with Norwegian carrier Norse Atlantic Airways on October 31. This decision marks a significant downsizing of the program launched last year to support the airline’s long-haul ambitions.
Under the damp lease arrangement, IndiGo provided cabin crew, while the lessor supplied the aircraft and flight crew. The agreement, reached in early 2025, covered a total of six Boeing 787-9 aircraft leased to allow IndiGo to launch flights to Europe and gain operational experience prior to the arrival of its own widebody fleet. For its part, Norse Atlantic confirmed that IndiGo will return all six aircraft.
Adverse Operating Environment Factors
The airline justified the suspension of the program by citing an adverse operating environment driven by geopolitical tensions, which increased operating costs and compromised the economic viability of the project.
According to the carrier, the main factors prompting the review of the project and the search for potential alternatives were:
- Airspace restrictions: Operational limitations that directly impacted route efficiency.
- High fuel costs: Sustained price increases in key operational inputs for transcontinental routes.
- Foreign exchange pressures: Adverse currency impacts on cost structure and service profitability.
- Network disruption: Deterioration of schedule integrity, global connectivity, and overall program competitiveness.
International Network Reorganization: Adjustments in Amsterdam and London
As part of the operational restructuring following the return of the Boeing 787-9s, IndiGo will redefine its services to the European continent:
- Mumbai – Amsterdam Route: Effective October 25, this service will transition to single-aisle ultra-long-range Airbus A321XLR aircraft.
- London (Heathrow) Route: Operations to and from London Heathrow Airport will be temporarily suspended until the airline begins receiving its own Airbus A350-900 widebody aircraft.
Long-Term Commitment
Despite the suspension of these operations, IndiGo maintained that its commitment to its long-term international growth strategy remains firm. The company will continue to expand its network of European destinations through the deployment of its A321XLR fleet, while simultaneously preparing the infrastructure and logistics for the future induction of its owned A350-900 fleet.
Regarding passengers affected by schedule cancellations or modifications on these routes, the airline reported that it will offer alternative travel options or ticket refunds, as applicable.
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