India’s largest airline, IndiGo, will discontinue its wide-body operations from October 25, 2026, citing a challenging operating environment driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions. The airline will also terminate its damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways with effect from October 31, 2026.
As part of the transition, IndiGo’s Mumbai-Amsterdam service will be operated using the Airbus A321XLR from October 25. However, the airline will temporarily suspend its London Heathrow operations until it begins receiving its own Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
Building long-haul capabilities
IndiGo had entered into a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways in early 2025 for six Boeing 787-9 aircraft to accelerate its entry into long-haul international operations.
The arrangement enabled the airline to launch services to destinations in the UK and Europe while building operational expertise ahead of the induction of its Airbus A350 fleet. During this period, IndiGo developed capabilities across long-haul network planning, customer experience, crew operations, maintenance, airport handling, revenue management and international partnerships.
Rising costs force review
According to the airline, the operating environment has changed significantly since the programme was launched.
Escalating airspace restrictions, higher fuel prices and adverse currency movements have increased operating costs while affecting route efficiency, schedule reliability, connectivity and overall competitiveness. These factors, coupled with increased volatility across global aviation markets, prompted the airline to undertake a comprehensive review of the project and evaluate alternative options.
Focus remains on long-term international growth
IndiGo Senior Vice President, Planning and Revenue Management Abhijit Dasgupta said the decision reflects the need for prudent resource allocation amid continuing geopolitical uncertainties while remaining committed to the airline’s long-term international expansion strategy.
He said the wide-body lease programme was intended not merely to operate specific routes but to establish the operational foundation for IndiGo’s future long-haul network. The experience gained during the programme, along with encouraging customer response, has reinforced the airline’s confidence in its international growth plans.
Dasgupta said IndiGo will continue expanding its European network using the Airbus A321XLR while maintaining preparations for launching services with its own Airbus A350-900 fleet. He also thanked Norse Atlantic Airways for its partnership and acknowledged the support of customers, employees and business partners.
Customer support
IndiGo said it will work closely with affected passengers by offering suitable alternatives, including rebooking on alternate services or refunds, wherever applicable, to ensure a smooth transition.