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IndiGo Expands Long-Haul Travel with Norse Atlantic Partnership

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has taken a significant step toward launching long-haul operations by partnering with Norwegian carrier Norse Atlantic Airways. The collaboration includes a firm wet lease agreement for one aircraft, set to begin operations in March 2025. This agreement follows an initial letter of intent signed in late 2024 for up to six aircraft.

A Strategic Move into Long-Haul Operations

Currently, IndiGo operates a fleet focused on short- and medium-haul routes, with long-haul services available only through codeshare agreements. The partnership with Norse Atlantic marks a major shift, allowing the airline to offer direct long-haul flights out of India.

The initial agreement spans six months, with an option to extend up to 18 months, pending regulatory approvals. IndiGo and Norse Atlantic are also exploring the possibility of leasing additional aircraft to strengthen their collaboration.

“We look forward to supporting IndiGo’s long-haul services and delivering an exceptional travel experience to their customers,” said Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways.

IndiGo has yet to announce the specific routes for its first widebody aircraft, but industry reports suggest a focus on high-demand destinations such as London and Paris. These routes serve significant Indian diaspora and business travel markets.

In addition to its wet lease agreement, IndiGo has placed a firm order for 30 Airbus A350-900 widebody aircraft, with an option for 70 more. Deliveries for these aircraft are set to begin in 2027, signaling a long-term commitment to international expansion.

The airline has also introduced fleet diversification strategies in recent years, including:

  • Boeing 777-300ER Wet Lease (2023) – Leased from Turkish Airlines for India-Turkey routes.
  • Boeing 737 MAX-8 Wet Lease (2024) – Leased from Qatar Airways for India-Doha routes and Corendon Airlines for the Chennai route.
  • Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (2025) – Entering service under a damp lease with Norse Atlantic.

Designed for fuel efficiency and long-range operations, the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner will enhance IndiGo’s ability to operate economically on intercontinental routes.

Capturing India’s Growing International Market

IndiGo’s expansion into long-haul travel aligns with a broader transformation in India’s aviation sector. Indian airlines currently account for 43% of the country’s international passenger traffic, a figure projected to rise to 50% by the 2027-28 fiscal year, according to CRISIL Ratings.

“Indian businesses are expanding internationally, our citizens are exploring more destinations than ever before, and our diaspora continues to grow,” said IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers. “However, certain key markets remain underserved, representing a vast reservoir of untapped potential.”

Alongside its long-haul strategy, IndiGo has introduced a business class on domestic routes and launched a new loyalty program, further strengthening its premium travel offerings.

With a strong growth trajectory, an expanding fleet, and a clear focus on international markets, IndiGo is well-positioned to become a major player in the long-haul travel segment.