IndiGo Airlines, a low-cost carrier, plans to continue using wet- and damp-leased aircraft to meet strong demand for air travel and address capacity shortfalls. According to CEO Pieter Elbers, the airline will continue to lease aircraft to cater to underserved markets and deal with supply chain challenges. Elbers stated that the number of grounded aircraft, primarily due to the Pratt & Whitney powder metal issue, has peaked and is now decreasing, with the goal of having around 40 grounded aircraft by April 1, 2025.
IndiGo Airlines currently operates 408 owned and dry-leased aircraft, as well as 16 A320-200s, 10 B737-8s, 2 B737-800s, and 2 B777-300ERs on wet/damp lease. The airline has added eight damp-leased aircraft to its fleet in the last quarter of 2024 and is actively exploring opportunities to add more long-range wet/damp leased jets.
Elbers emphasized that the airline will continue to adjust its lease situation to match market demand and accommodate growth. He believes that wet/damp leases have served IndiGo well in terms of meeting demand, maintaining its market position, building its network, and creating a customer base. The airline will continue to use wet/damp leases to address capacity shortfalls and supply chain challenges, with a focus on seasonal fluctuations and AOG (aircraft on ground) situations.
Overall, IndiGo Airlines plans to continue using wet- and damp-leased aircraft to meet strong demand for air travel and address capacity shortfalls, with a focus on adjusting its lease situation to match market demand and accommodate growth.