GURUGRAM – India’s largest low-cost carrier (LCC) Indigo Airlines (6E) plans to enter the European market with the launch of a non-stop flight from Delhi (DEL) to Manchester (MAN), UK.
This marks an important milestone for Indigo as it enters the European market for the first time in its operational history.
Indigo Flights to Europe
IndiGo now appears to be developing an international network to provide direct and smooth connectivity to Europe without compromising its low-cost structure. The aim is to meet the growing demand for travel and make the company a major player in the long-haul budget aviation sector.
IndiGo (6E) is planning a historic move by launching the first-ever non-stop flight to Europe between Delhi (DEL) and Manchester (MAN). Flights are scheduled to operate daily.
Subject to successful implementation of the plan, IndiGo will commence these daily flights from July 1, 2025.
Current filings show the airline has already secured the slots needed to operate these flights. As per available information, IndiGo (6E) is planning to operate flights to and from Manchester on a convenient morning schedule.
Flight 6E31 arrives in Manchester at 7:55am GMT. Return flight 6E32 departs Manchester at 10:55 GMT.
Interestingly, IndiGo has applied for this route with Boeing 787-9. Once completed, the route will enhance connectivity and provide cost-effective travel options for passengers flying between India and the UK.
Growing IndiGo fleet
Just a few weeks into the new year, Indigo (6E) has announced its intention to wet lease a 787-9 from North Atlantic Airways (N0). The transaction is likely to be completed by February 2025.
IndiGo (6E) was initially expected to induct two 787-9s. Four more 787-9s are expected to join the airline’s fleet by September 2025. A total of six 787-9s are expected to join IndiGo’s fleet by September 2025.
IndiGo has also asked Airbus to expedite the delivery of the A350s it has ordered. This shows that airlines are very keen to start operating long-haul routes.
In view of this development, IndiGo (6E) has applied for flights to the UK. The airline has chosen to operate from Manchester (MAN) rather than London, its traditionally preferred destination.
Additionally, a flight to London may also be planned. Either to Heathrow Airport (LHR) or Gatwick Airport (LGW). Currently, the company operates a fleet of Boeing 777 aircraft.
Also read: IndiGo launches flights to Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami
Does this route make sense?
IndiGo (6E) has ambitious plans to fly to Manchester (MAN) and the demand for Manchester (MAN) from various cities in India is actually good.
Mumbai (BOM) is the largest market from India to Manchester. Mumbai (BOM) – Manchester (MAN) will have around 69,000 passengers in 2023. Delhi (DEL) is the second largest market with approximately 57,000 passengers in 2023.
However, there may be flights from Delhi (DEL) to Manchester (MAN). This is likely the case since IndiGo’s largest base is in Delhi. The airline can effectively target passengers from other cities in the country and connect them via Delhi (DEL).
Manchester is a bold step for Indigo and demonstrates the company’s ambitions to expand its horizons into Europe. If the move is successful, it could pave the way for further lines in the region. London just might be your next destination.
Please look forward to it. Additionally, follow us on social media for updates.
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