IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has finalised a firm order for 30 more Airbus A350-900 aircraft, converting a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June into a binding agreement. This move doubles IndiGo’s total A350 orders to 60 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its strategy to enter the long-haul international market.
The decision reflects IndiGo’s ambition to transform from a domestic powerhouse into a global aviation player. With over 400 aircraft currently in service and 900+ on order, IndiGo is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for international travel from India.
CEO Pieter Elbers on IndiGo’s Global Vision
“Today is a special day for IndiGo as we solidify our commitment to expanding our international footprint and offering unparalleled connectivity to our customers,” said Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo. “The conversion of this MoU into a firm order for 30 additional A350-900s is a testament to our confidence in the future of Indian aviation and our strategic partnership with Airbus. These aircraft will play a pivotal role in enabling IndiGo to expand its reach and connect India with more destinations across the globe.”
This expansion aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global aviation hub by 2030, and IndiGo’s aspiration to establish itself as a leading international carrier.
Airbus A350: Efficiency Meets Comfort
The Airbus A350-900 is widely recognised as the most modern and efficient wide-body aircraft in the 300–410 seat category. It offers:
- 25% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft.
- Advanced aerodynamics and lightweight composite materials.
- State-of-the-art cabin design for superior passenger comfort.
The A350 is already capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and Airbus aims for all its aircraft to be 100% SAF-compatible by 2030—a critical step toward greener aviation.
Rolls-Royce Trent XWB Engines Powering IndiGo’s Fleet
IndiGo has also signed an agreement with Rolls-Royce to equip its A350 fleet with Trent XWB-84 engines, delivering 84,000 pounds of thrust. These engines are celebrated for their fuel efficiency, reliability, and reduced emissions, making them ideal for long-haul operations.
India’s Aviation Market: A Global Opportunity
India is the world’s fastest-growing aviation market, driven by rising household incomes and a surge in international travel demand. While IndiGo’s A320 family aircraft have democratised domestic air travel, the A350 will unlock new opportunities for global connectivity.
Airbus EVP Benoît de Saint-Exupéry noted: “The A350’s fuel efficiency, range, and passenger comfort perfectly align with IndiGo’s ambitious growth plans and international network ambitions.”
What’s Next for IndiGo?
IndiGo expects its first A350-900 to join the fleet in 2027, complementing its leased Boeing 787 Dreamliners already operating long-haul routes. Additionally, IndiGo plans to introduce A321XLR aircraft from January 2026, with inaugural flights to Athens from Delhi and Mumbai.
With these strategic moves, IndiGo is not just expanding—it’s redefining the future of Indian aviation and setting the stage for global dominance.
