IndiGo to end wide-body operations from October 25, exit Norse lease by month-end

IndiGo will discontinue its wide-body operations from 25 October and conclude its damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways on 31 October, marking a strategic shift in its long-haul expansion plans amid mounting operational challenges.

According to Reuters, the airline said a deteriorating operating environment, driven by geopolitical tensions, has increased costs and affected the economics of the programme launched last year to support its international network expansion.

Under the damp lease arrangement, IndiGo provided cabin crew, while Norse Atlantic supplied the aircraft and pilots.

Rising costs prompt strategic review

The airline said several external factors had reduced the viability of its wide-body operations.

According to IndiGo, the key challenges include:

• Airspace restrictions affecting route efficiency
• Higher fuel costs
• Currency pressures
• Reduced schedule reliability and network connectivity
• Lower overall competitiveness of the leased wide-body operations

The airline said these factors prompted a review of the programme and alternative options for serving long-haul markets.

Network changes from late October

As part of the operational changes, IndiGo will adjust its European services.

The airline confirmed:

• Mumbai-Amsterdam flights will be operated using Airbus A321XLR aircraft from 25 October.
• Services to and from London Heathrow will be suspended until the airline receives its Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

According to Reuters, the changes form part of IndiGo's transition towards operating long-haul routes with its own fleet rather than leased aircraft.

Lease agreement to conclude

IndiGo entered into the agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways in early 2025, leasing six Boeing 787-9 aircraft to accelerate its entry into European and UK markets while gaining operational experience ahead of the arrival of its own wide-body fleet.

In a separate statement, Norse Atlantic confirmed that IndiGo would return all six aircraft.

The leased Boeing 787 fleet enabled the airline to launch services to Europe and Britain during the interim period.

Long-term international strategy remains unchanged

Despite ending the lease programme, IndiGo said its long-term international expansion plans remain intact.

The airline said it will continue to:

• Expand its European network using Airbus A321XLR aircraft.
• Prepare for the introduction of Airbus A350 services as deliveries begin.

According to the airline, affected passengers will be offered alternative travel arrangements or refunds, where applicable.