IndiGo expects its first Airbus A350-900s to join the fleet in the second quarter of 2028, with the initial 10 aircraft configured with 16 lie-flat business-class seats alongside premium economy and economy cabins. CEO Willie Walsh outlined the plan in New Delhi. The widebodies are intended to support the Indian carrier’s expansion into long-haul international services, complementing its Airbus A321XLR operations.
The cabin layout for the first 10 aircraft has been finalised, although IndiGo has not disclosed their total seating capacity or the routes they will serve. The move takes the airline beyond its traditional low-cost model as it builds a long-haul offering.
Until the A350s arrive, IndiGo plans to continue A321XLR services to Amsterdam to retain its airport slots. Walsh also identified Mumbai and the planned Navi Mumbai airport as important to the carrier’s future long-haul growth.
IndiGo previously operated long-haul services using damp-leased Boeing 787-9s, but those operations have since ended. The A350s will therefore represent a planned addition to its own fleet, rather than aircraft already in service.