India, Aug. 1 -- Due to the challenging operating environment triggered by the ongoing geopolitical tensions, IndiGo today announced that 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.
Wide-body operations discontinued:
IndiGo will end its Boeing 787-9 damp lease programme with Norse Atlantic Airways.
- Operations cease 25 Oct 2026; lease concludes 31 Oct 2026.
Route adjustments:
- Mumbai-Amsterdam will shift to Airbus A321XLR from 25 Oct 2026.
- London Heathrow services will be temporarily suspended until IndiGo's own Airbus A350-900s are delivered.
Strategic Context
- The damp lease (started in 2025) was designed to fast-track long-haul learning and build competencies in:
- Network planning
- Customer experience
- Crew operations & maintenance
- Revenue management
- International partnerships
Challenges prompting exit:
- Escalating costs (fuel, currency pressures)
- Airspace constraints
- Reduced industry risk appetite amid geopolitical tensions
Leadership Statement
Abhijit Dasgupta (SVP, Planning & Revenue Management) emphasized:
- The project was about laying foundations for future A350 operations, not just serving routes.
- IndiGo remains committed to long-term international expansion, with A321XLR sustaining European connectivity until wide-body deliveries.
- Appreciation extended to Norse Atlantic Airways and stakeholders for their support.
Customer Impact
- IndiGo will assist affected passengers with......
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Travel Media.