Civil Aviation
IndiGo Plans London and Paris Routes with Leased Boeing 787 Dreamliners

India’s leading low-cost airline, IndiGo Airlines (6E), is preparing for a major expansion in its international operations.
Known for its all-Airbus fleet, IndiGo is now planning to wet lease Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This strategic move aims to introduce long-haul flights to key destinations like London and Paris, catering to the rising demand for international travel.
IndiGo is reportedly in talks with Norse Atlantic Airways to lease six Boeing 787s. Unlike a dry lease, where only the aircraft is provided, a wet lease includes the aircraft, flight crew, and maintenance services.
This allows IndiGo to quickly deploy wide-body jets without waiting for its own Airbus A350s, which are expected to arrive in 2027.
The airline plans to start using the leased Dreamliners within the next few months, with all six aircraft likely to be operational by 2025. This move will mark IndiGo’s entry into the long-haul market, a significant step for the low-cost carrier as it competes on global routes.
IndiGo emphasized its commitment to enhancing passenger experience and meeting growing travel demand. In a statement, the airline said, “IndiGo is committed to constantly evolving to provide our customers an alternate and differentiated travel experience, which is best in class.”
The airline also cited global supply chain challenges as a reason for exploring this interim solution. The introduction of long-range aircraft like the Boeing 787 will help IndiGo expand its reach while waiting for its Airbus A321XLR jets, set to arrive in 2025, and the wide-body A350s expected in 2027.
