IndiGo, the largest airline in India, is looking to expand its international operations by introducing new flights to Nairobi, Jakarta and Central Asia, according to its Chief, Pieter Elbers.
The move is part of the airline’s focus on internationalization as it looks to stay competitive in the rapidly growing Indian aviation market.
“In 2023, we expect a continuation of the domestic recovery and, simultaneously, a stronger international recovery. @IndiGo6E is looking to start flights to Nairobi, Jakarta and some Central Asian destinations this year,” said Indigo chief Pieter Elbers to PTI News
EXCLUSIVE | VIDEO: “In 2023, we expect a continuation of the domestic recovery and, simultaneously, a stronger international recovery. @IndiGo6E is looking to start flights to Nairobi, Jakarta and some Central Asian destinations this year”: Indigo chief Pieter Elbers to @PTI_News pic.twitter.com/ehbD8OoH40
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 17, 2023Advertisement
The State of the Indian Aviation Market
India’s aviation market is currently experiencing strong growth, and according to Elbers, there is still plenty of room for multiple airlines to succeed.
IndiGo is one of the leading airlines in the market, with a fleet of over 300 planes and operations to 76 domestic and 26 international destinations. The airline recently announced plans to expand to two more domestic destinations, Nashik and Dharamshala.
Elbers notes that competition is good for the market, but he hopes that it will be accompanied by market growth. He believes that the consolidation being done under the Air India group is a natural evolution of the market. IndiGo is benefitting from India’s economic growth, and the airline’s network is helping to boost local economic growth.
IndiGo’s International Expansion Plans
Elbers stated that Nairobi and Jakarta are two important points to connect with tourism, business, and the Indian diaspora. The airline believes that the combination of these factors makes for a great proposition. The airline is also considering several other Central Asian destinations, but these have not yet been decided.
IndiGo currently operates around 1,800 flights daily, and its current seat offerings are approximately 80% domestic and 20% international. The airline’s recent quarterly report showed a sharp rise in profit at Rs 1,422.6 crore, with its highest-ever quarterly total income at Rs 15,410.2 crore.
IndiGo’s Expansion to Wide-Body Aircraft
The airline recently started operations with wide-body Boeing 777 aircraft, marking the first step in its expansion efforts. Elbers noted that the decision was born out of the need for capacity in a market that is rapidly growing. The flights have been operating for two weeks, and the airline has received a very positive response from the market.
The airline has also placed an order with Airbus for A321XLR aircraft, which will have a longer range. These planes are expected to arrive in 2024-25, depending on the aircraft maker’s delivery schedule.
Final Thoughts
IndiGo’s expansion plans highlight the growing competition in the Indian aviation market. With the market set to continue growing, there is room for multiple airlines to succeed. IndiGo’s focus on international sectors is a smart move, and the airline’s recent quarterly report indicates that it is on the right track.
It will be interesting to see how the market evolves and how IndiGo’s expansion plans will impact the Indian aviation landscape.
(Source and inputs from PTI News)
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!
