Mumbai: IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, has officially unveiled the launch dates for its highly anticipated long-haul services to Europe. Direct flights between Mumbai and Manchester will commence on July 1, followed by flights to Amsterdam from July 2, marking the airline’s debut in the long-haul sector.
The new routes will be operated using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, damp-leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. The Dreamliners feature a double-aisle layout with 56 IndiGoStretch seats (2x3x2 configuration) and 282 economy seats (3x3x3 configuration). Passengers will enjoy enhanced travel experiences, including priority check-in, anytime boarding, advance seat selection, and 30kg baggage allowance, along with a 12kg cabin bag.
IndiGo becomes the only airline to offer nonstop service between Mumbai and Manchester. Flights are now open for booking on all major platforms.
CEO Pieter Elbers said, “Our entry into long-haul operations is a landmark moment in IndiGo’s global growth story. We are excited to connect Mumbai with Manchester—an important and symbolic route.”
The airline has damp-leased six Boeing 787-9 aircraft to support this expansion, with one already operating on the Delhi-Bangkok route. More Dreamliners will be added as IndiGo awaits the delivery of its A321XLR aircraft later this year and the A350-900 from 2027.
Connecting Communities
According to Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, this route will link over 500,000 people of Indian heritage in the region to their roots, enhancing cultural and economic ties. “With the recent opening of the Indian consulate in Manchester, this launch couldn’t be better timed,” he added.
Onboard Experience
IndiGo also confirmed that complimentary hot meals and beverages will be provided to all passengers. Economy travelers will receive vegetarian meals by default, with an option to pre-book non-vegetarian dishes. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase in economy class, while all services are complimentary in the IndiGoStretch category.
The airline’s entry into the European market marks the beginning of a new chapter in its international journey, aimed at expanding its global footprint and offering direct, seamless travel options for Indian flyers.
