India’s Leading Airline IndiGo, a subsidiary of InterGlobe Aviation Ltd., is India’s largest airline, boasting the largest fleet and carrying the most passengers domestically. With a commanding 63.6% market share in November 2024, IndiGo also ranks among the world’s largest airlines by passenger volume, exceeding 100 million travelers in 2023. Founded in 2006 by Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal, IndiGo commenced operations in August 2006 with a fleet of Airbus A320s. The airline’s rapid growth propelled it to the top of the Indian aviation market in 2012. Operates over 2,000 daily flights connecting 126 destinations (89 domestic, 37 international). Hub: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. Became a publicly traded company in November 2015. Ranked 15th globally for punctuality in 2022 by OAG. Initial order for 100 Airbus A320s in 2005. Rapid expansion led to concerns regarding safety in 2011. Significant order for 180 Airbus A320s in 2011. Received approval for international flights in 2011.
more from wikipedia
IndiGo Expands Its Network with Daily Direct Flights Between Jharsuguda and Mumbai
IndiGo, a low-cost airline, has launched a new daily flight service between Mumbai and Jharsuguda, providing a direct air link between the two cities. The inaugural flight from Mumbai, which carried 122 passengers, landed at Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda, where it was welcomed with a ceremonial water cannon salute. The return flight to Mumbai departed with 92 passengers. The new service was officially inaugurated by Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathy, airport director, and other officials from the Airports Authority of India and IndiGo.
IndiGo believes that this route will enhance inter-state connectivity, unlock economic and trade opportunities, and position Jharsuguda as a key gateway for regional growth and development. The airline aims to provide affordable, on-time, and seamless travel experiences, and expects the route to improve accessibility, encourage business expansion, and strengthen economic ties between Mumbai and Jharsuguda.
The new connectivity is expected to benefit traders, industrialists, and travelers by offering a convenient and efficient travel option. The flight schedule is as follows: Mumbai to Jharsuguda (Flight 6E 811) departs at 10:55 AM and arrives at 1:00 PM, while Jharsuguda to Mumbai (Flight 6E 5155) departs at 2:20 PM and arrives at 4:15 PM. Passengers can book tickets through IndiGo’s official website or mobile app.
IndiGo hits a roadblock due to a fine for input tax credit discrepancy, prompting a review of legal options.
IndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier, is facing a financial challenge related to input tax credits. As per the reports, the airline has been served a notice by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) department, demanding a hefty fine of around Rs 11.37 crore (approximately $1.6 million USD) for a discrepancy in claiming input tax credits.
The issue seems to be related to a technical glitch in IndiGo’s inventory management system, which allegedly resulted in the misreporting of input tax credits. The airline has been under scrutiny for this alleged discrepancy, which has led to the GST department taking legal action against it.
According to the report, the fine is related to a specific period between 2016 and 2018, during which IndiGo allegedly failed to declare the correct input tax credits. The company is now exploring legal recourse, seeking to contest the notice and the alleged fine.
IndiGo has disclosed that it is working closely with tax authorities and is committed to resolving the issue in a fair and transparent manner. The airline is also reviewing its internal processes to ensure that similar mistakes do not occur in the future.
Although the exact cause of the discrepancy is still unclear, it is believed that the glitch may have arisen from human error or technical issues with the company’s inventory management system. As a responsible business, IndiGo is taking steps to rectify the situation and clear its name in this matter.
The airline has a significant presence in the Indian aviation market, with over 1,500 daily flights and a fleet of over 240 aircraft. As such, any financial instability or regulatory issues could have a significant impact on its operations and reputation.
IndiGo’s prompt response and commitment to resolving the issue suggests that the airline is taking a proactive approach to addressing this challenge. It remains to be seen how the matter unfolds, but for now, the airline is working to clear its name and restore its reputation in the eyes of its stakeholders.
In conclusion, the issue involving IndiGo’s input tax credits serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining accurate records and compliance with regulatory requirements, especially in a complex and rapidly changing business environment. As the matter continues to unfold, it will be crucial for the airline to demonstrate transparency and accountability to maintain investor and customer trust.
The wait is over! IndiGo’s latest Boeing 787-9 takes to the skies, bound for an unexpected and thrilling destination.
IndiGo Airlines has announced the launch of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner service, with bookings now open for daily flights from Delhi to Bangkok, starting March 1, 2025. The airline will operate the route with a 338-seat configuration, including 56 premium economy seats and 282 economy seats, making it a more attractive option for passengers.
The choice of Bangkok as the first 787-9 route has surprised many, as it was expected that IndiGo would debut its widebody operations on a European route. Instead, the airline is using the route as a test run before launching longer international flights. The addition of the 787-9 will provide more seating capacity, enhanced comfort, and potential premium seating options, making it a viable alternative to full-service carriers.
The partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways, a Norwegian low-cost carrier, allows IndiGo to enter the widebody market quickly, without waiting for its own Airbus A350-900 deliveries, which are expected to start in 2027. The agreement includes leasing up to six 787-9s, with the first two expected to join the fleet in February 2025, followed by four more in September 2025.
IndiGo’s decision to start with a short-haul route may indicate that they are testing their crew training, maintenance, and operational logistics before expanding to longer routes. The airline’s long-term plans include expanding its international network, with slots already held in various European airports. The choice of Bangkok as the first 787-9 route may be a strategic move to strengthen its presence in high-demand regional markets before expanding further.
The successful execution of this new chapter in IndiGo’s operations will be closely monitored by industry observers, as it marks a significant milestone in the airline’s growth and development. With six 787-9s expected in 2025, longer routes, such as London, Paris, or Copenhagen, may be in the pipeline.
Air Travel at a Standstill: Flyers Unite to Challenge Air India and IndiGo’s Monopoly
The Indian domestic aviation market has been dominated by only a few players, primarily Air India and IndiGo, resulting in reduced options and increasing ticket prices. With the shutdown of Go First and financial struggles of SpiceJet, the number of options for passengers has significantly decreased. This has led to a duopoly, making domestic emergency travel more difficult and expensive.
The lack of competition has given airlines the power to hike prices, especially for last-minute travelers. For instance, a one-way ticket from Mumbai to Delhi can cost as much as ₹25,000, making it difficult for those who need to travel under urgent circumstances. This is particularly challenging for business travelers, medical patients, and those with family obligations who require last-minute travel arrangements.
The Indian government can consider introducing policies to curb price increases and promote more competition in the market. New players like Akasa Air are increasing their network, but it will take time for them to catch up with IndiGo and Air India in terms of size. Enhancing price transparency and regulatory monitoring of airfare swings can also help alleviate the burden on passengers.
Ultimately, the future of the Indian aviation market depends on finding a balance between passenger affordability and airline profitability. With more competition, passengers may have better options and lower prices. However, as of now, the duopoly holds the reins, making domestic air travel in India a challenge for consumers.
GMR Hyderabad International Airport prepares to take off with the launch of new direct flight services from Hyderabad to Mecca, in partnership with IndiGo, effective today.
The GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL) has announced the launch of new flight services from Hyderabad to Medina with IndiGO Airlines. The inaugural flight took off on Friday, with senior officials from GHIAL in attendance. The new service will operate three times a week, on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with a flight duration of approximately 5 hours and 47 minutes.
The new route offers passengers from South Asia and Southeast Asia more travel options, providing expanded connectivity to destinations across the Middle East. According to Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd., the new route not only broadens the airport’s international network but also offers passengers a unique travel experience, connecting Hyderabad with one of the most visited religious cities in the world.
The launch of this new service is a significant milestone for the airport, highlighting its growing importance as an emerging global hub. The addition of IndiGO Airlines to the airport’s roster of airlines demonstrates the airport’s commitment to providing passengers with more travel options and ensuring that they have a seamless travel experience. Overall, this development is expected to further boost the airport’s reputation as a key gateway to the region.
Air India and IndiGo at odds as ALPA India announces neither airline will hire pilots from each other.
A major pilots’ group, Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA India), has alleged that India’s two leading airlines, Air India and IndiGo, have informally agreed not to hire each other’s pilots. This has raised concerns about employment fairness and the competition in the aviation sector. ALPA India has written to the Civil Aviation Ministry, urging authorities to investigate and ensure a fair hiring process.
The association claims that such an agreement would restrict pilots’ job opportunities and violate labor laws and competition regulations. India’s aviation market is growing rapidly, with over 1,800 aircraft on order, and the demand for qualified pilots is expected to increase significantly. ALPA India believes that a transparent and competitive job market is essential to maintain the industry’s growth.
The association has requested the Civil Aviation Ministry to take action to safeguard employment fairness in the sector. It emphasizes that any hiring policies adopted by airlines must align with constitutional and legal principles. The group believes that regulatory oversight is crucial to maintaining a fair and competitive labor market for pilots in India.
The allegations have been met with silence from Air India and IndiGo, with an IndiGo official denying the claims. The lack of a formal response has left room for speculation within the aviation sector. If proven, the alleged agreement could potentially lead to regulatory scrutiny and probes by competition authorities. The matter has sparked concerns about the impact on employment opportunities for pilots in the Indian aviation industry.
SpiceJet considers entry into widebody market to compete with rival airlines
The Indian aviation market has become increasingly competitive, with several airlines expanding their fleets and services. The take-over of Air India by the Tata Group has sparked a new wave of growth, with the airline ordering 777X and 787 A350s, while IndiGo has secured a contract for 30 A350s. SpiceJet, a low-cost carrier founded in 2004, is also considering expanding its widebody fleet to launch long-haul flights. According to CEO Ajay Singh, the airline is discussing possible orders for widebody aircraft and is optimistic about the future.
SpiceJet has experience with widebody aircraft through charter and repatriation flights, and the airline’s modest size and current fleet of 59 aircraft, including 24 Dash 8 turboprops and 35 Boeing 737s, creates opportunities for growth. While SpiceJet is still rebuilding its finances, it sees potential for expansion and is exploring options to add more aircraft to its fleet. In contrast, Air India has a much larger fleet of 198 aircraft, while IndiGo operates 438 jets, making SpiceJet a smaller player in the market. The airline’s plans to expand its widebody fleet and enter the long-haul market could be a significant game-changer, providing more options for passengers and increased competition in the Indian aviation market.
SpiceJet sets its sights on global flights with wide-body aircraft, planning to expand its long-haul operations.
SpiceJet, a low-cost airline, may explore acquiring widebody aircraft for long-haul operations in the future, according to its CEO Ajay Singh. Singh emphasized that the airline will need to consider widebody aircraft to meet the growing demand in India. He also mentioned that they are currently in discussions with major manufacturers to look at potential orders for widebody aircraft. This comes after other Indian carriers, such as Air India and IndiGo, have placed large orders for widebody aircraft in recent years.
Singh highlighted that SpiceJet has experience with long-haul operations during the Covid-19 pandemic, where they wet-leased widebodies for repatriation and charter flights. However, the airline is currently focused on stabilizing its operations and resolving its debt issues, which include several rounds of fundraising in 2024.
The return of SpiceJet’s Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft is crucial to the airline, as it allows them to operate to high-demand markets like Jeddah and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia without restrictions. By April, the airline expects to have four more Max 8s back in service, which will help them to rebuild their capacity and profitability. While there is no definitive timeline for SpiceJet’s entry into the widebody market, Singh suggests that it may be a focus for the airline in the future once they have stabilized their operations.
Get ready to soar between Bhopal and Jabalpur in under an hour, as IndiGo commences direct, non-stop flights from March 2025.
IndiGo, a popular Indian low-cost carrier, is launching non-stop flights between Bhopal and Jabalpur, connecting the two cities in just over an hour. Starting from March 2025, the airline will operate daily flights between the two cities, making it more convenient for passengers to travel between the two.
The new route is expected to benefit commuters, business travelers, and tourists alike, providing a efficient and affordable way to travel between the Madhya Pradesh cities. Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh, and Jabalpur is a major commercial and educational hub in the state. The cities are also known for their rich historical and cultural heritage, making the new flights beneficial for tourists exploring the region.
The introduction of non-stop flights is expected to reduce travel time, making it ideal for frequent travelers, business delegates, and tourists. Additionally, IndiGo’s affordable fares are likely to attract more people to travel between the two cities, promoting regional connectivity and boosting economic growth in the region.
IndiGo has been expanding its route network in recent years, catering to growing demand for air travel in India. The airline has a strong presence in the country with a network of over 1500 daily flights to 60 domestic and 30 international routes. The new flights between Bhopal and Jabalpur is yet another step by the airline to strengthen its presence in the country and cater to the growing demand for air travel.
IndiGo’s False Promise: Paid Extra for a Window Seat, Got a Brick Wall Instead
A recent viral post by a Chennai-based sports commentator, Pradeep Muthu, has brought to light the issue of “missing window seats” on some aircraft, specifically in economy class. Muthu booked a window seat on an IndiGo flight but was surprised to find a solid wall panel instead of a window. He shared a photo of the issue on X, which gained over 6.88 lakh views and hundreds of comments.
Many users shared similar experiences, revealing that several aircraft have window seats without windows due to structural design. Some humorously suggested that IndiGo rename such seats as “wall seats” to avoid misleading passengers. Others criticized the airline for not informing customers beforehand, arguing that transparency is crucial. Aviation experts explained that certain aircraft configurations, such as the placement of structural reinforcements or emergency exits, can result in “missing window seats.”
However, experts also emphasized that airlines should ideally mark such seats on their booking platforms to prevent confusion and dissatisfaction. While IndiGo has not responded to Muthu’s complaint, the incident has sparked discussions on the importance of providing detailed seat maps to passengers. Some travelers even suggested adjusting seat selection fees based on amenities, ensuring that those expecting a window actually get one.
The issue has raised questions about transparency and customer satisfaction in the airline industry. While humor has been a part of the response, it is clear that passengers expect more clarity and honesty when booking their flights.
Low-cost carriers Akasa, Boeing-backed IndiGo, and innovative air taxi services
I apologize, but the provided content appears to be a series of empty lines and characters, with no actual text to summarize. It seems to be a technical issue or a prank.
Chennai Airport grounded by dense fog, dozens of flights redirected to alternative destinations.
Severe foggy conditions at Chennai airport on Tuesday morning led to widespread disruptions in flight operations, resulting in over 40 flight delays and multiple diversions. Poor visibility forced several aircraft to circle above the airport while waiting for landing clearance, while some flights were redirected to alternate airports. Departures were also significantly impacted, with delays of up to five hours.
International and domestic flights were affected, with flights from London, Muscat, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, and multiple IndiGo flights from other destinations, including Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Coimbatore, being re-routed to Bengaluru. Two IndiGo flights from Hyderabad and Pune were diverted to Thiruvananthapuram, and another flight from Hyderabad and Pune landed in Tirupati. An Air India flight from Bengaluru was unable to land in Chennai and had to return to its origin.
The dense fog also caused delays for departures, with flights to Delhi, Madurai, Coimbatore, Tuticorin, Vijayawada, Port Blair, London, Singapore, and Dubai being affected. Flights were eventually allowed to depart once weather conditions improved, but the delays caused significant inconvenience to passengers.
According to Flightradar24, Chennai airport ranked as the second most disrupted airport in the world between 6 AM and 8 AM IST, with an average departure delay of 92 minutes during this period. Air India and IndiGo issued travel advisories warning passengers about possible delays due to dense fog and advising them to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Airport officials acknowledged the widespread delays and diversions, citing safety as the top priority. With visibility being a critical factor in flight safety, authorities had no choice but to delay and divert operations. Passengers are advised to stay updated on flight schedules, especially during foggy conditions, to avoid last-minute inconvenience.
IndiGo Airlines grounds AOG numbers, while wet-lease operations remain unaffected.
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.
In 2024, a staggering 728 fake bomb threats were made to airlines, resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals, according to the Centre.
In 2024, Indian airlines received a significant number of bomb threats, with 728 threats reported to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry. Out of these, 714 were hoax threats received by domestic airlines, while 14 were received by foreign carriers. According to the data, IndiGo received the highest number of bomb threats at 216, followed by Air India (179), Vistara (153), Akasa Air (72), SpiceJet (35), Alliance Air (26), Air India Express (19), and Star Air (14).
The bomb threats were reported to the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which is responsible for handling such incidents. Interestingly, only 13 people were arrested in connection with these hoax bomb threats, indicating that many individuals were able to get away with making the threats without facing any consequences.
The data also reveals that international carriers such as Emirates, Air Arabia, Aeroflot, Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, Etihad, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air received a total of 15 bomb threats in 2024. The majority of these were also hoax threats, with only a few being deemed serious.
The Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha that the government is taking these threats seriously and is working to ensure the safety and security of passengers and airlines. However, the low number of arrests and convictions suggest that more needs to be done to deter individuals from making such threats and to hold them accountable for their actions.
Doctor Alleges IndiGo Crew Ignored Emergency Light and Denied Pre-Arranged Food, Leaving Me Hypoglycaemic: A Crisis that Could Have Had Deadly Consequences
Dr. Suvrankar Datta, a former radiologist at AIIMS Delhi, blasted Indigo airways on a social media forum, X, for its shambolic handling of his request for a meal on a Bangalore to Delhi flight. Despite booking his meal advance, Dr. Datta claim that the staff ignored his pre-booked meals and failed to serve him timely, putting the lives of all passengers at risk. As someone with pre-booked high sugars levels, eating on time crucial for his physical well-being
The doctor recalls that the inflight meal services began soon after takeoff. A crew member informed him about a problem with his prebooked meal service, which were delayed. Instead of apologising or providing immediate solution, this crew member and another colleague in charge of assisting him ignored dr. Datha’s repeated enquiries about his
The doctor shared his ordeal he had to await for half An hour, 30 minutes that could have cause serious health trouble for him having pre-diabetics. Instead of taking up his concern politely, he shared that he called the emergency exit light to escalate the situation eventually, a stranger passenger noticed doctor’s distress from hypoglyceremia and sharing his sandwich was
The shocking part of their experience was what happened when she finally received after two hours’ wait, because of his precarious health condition caused by hypoglucemia it was an emotional and stressful outcome.