IndiGo strengthens long-haul capabilities with 30 new Airbus A350s
- IndiGo has ordered 30 more Airbus A350-900s, increasing its total to 60.
- The growth in India’s air travel industry has been rapid, with domestic passenger numbers up over 10 percent annually.
- IndiGo's strategic decision aims to enhance its long-haul services and further develop its international network.
India's leading low-cost airline, IndiGo, has announced a significant expansion of its fleet, placing a firm order for 30 Airbus A350-900 aircraft. This decision, made on Sunday, June 1, 2025, highlights the airline's commitment to growing its long-haul international network. The total number of A350 planes ordered by IndiGo now stands at 60, indicating a strategic shift towards increasing air traffic capacity and market presence. Founded in 2006, IndiGo has quickly established itself as the largest airline in India by market share. The airline previously had the largest single order in aviation history with a contract for 500 Airbus single-aisle aircraft, which showcases its aggressive strategy in expanding operations. Observers note that this move into the A350-900s is particularly important as it positions the airline to compete more effectively in the long-haul segment, which has become increasingly lucrative in recent years. The A350 is known for its fuel efficiency and long range, making it an ideal choice for transcontinental flights. The Indian airline sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, attributed to the country's expanding economy and rising domestic passenger traffic, which has increased over 10 percent annually. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has reported that historical milestones have been achieved, including surpassing 500,000 passengers in a single day. This growth trajectory is projected to continue, with India set to become the third-largest air market globally within the decade, according to the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) estimates. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has prioritized aviation development, resulting in a doubling of the number of airports in India in the last ten years. Plans are in place to increase this number to 400 by 2047, ensuring that the infrastructure keeps pace with the anticipated demand. The decision by IndiGo to order more A350s aligns with these broader trends, signaling not just the airline's ambitions but also the rising prominence of India in the global aviation landscape.