IndiGo May Order 40 New Airbus A350s to Reach 100-Mark

GURUGRAM— India’s largest low-cost carrier, IndiGo Airlines (6E), is reportedly nearing the conversion of its purchase rights for 40 additional Airbus A350 aircraft into firm orders, as per The Economic Times. These long-range widebody jets are anticipated to bolster IndiGo’s expanding international long-haul capabilities, primarily out of its key hub at Delhi (DEL).

IndiGo, which holds the title of India’s largest airline by market share, had originally ordered 30 Airbus A350-900s and later secured 30 more in June 2024, totaling 60. The potential acquisition of an additional 40 A350s would elevate IndiGo’s future widebody fleet to a remarkable 100 aircraft.

Airbus executive Benoit de Saint-Exupéry affirmed IndiGo’s ambition to acquire more widebody jets, noting that the airline’s initial purchase rights illustrated significant strategic insight.

“Given the growth and dynamics of the Indian market, it’s clear why there’s an increasing demand for advanced, long-range aircraft,” he remarked.

Although a specific timeline for the forthcoming orders has not been disclosed, this prospective movement indicates IndiGo’s determination to extend its reach beyond primarily domestic and short-haul international routes.

Deliveries of the 60 confirmed Airbus A350-900s are slated to begin in mid-2027. These aircraft, capable of flying distances of up to 18,000 km non-stop, signify a new era for the airline’s international ambitions.

It remains uncertain whether the future order will encompass the larger A350-1000 variant, which features a higher capacity (up to 410 passengers) and extended range compared to the A350-900.

At present, Air India (AI) stands as the only Indian airline with A350-1000s on order, featuring a four-class setup, inclusive of first class.

For IndiGo, which has historically adhered to a single-class, low-cost model, a transition to the A350-1000 may suggest operational diversification, particularly as it aims to compete with full-service carriers on lucrative long-haul routes.

Historic Aircraft Orders and Fleet Composition

In June 2023, IndiGo secured the title for the largest single aircraft order globally with the acquisition of 500 Airbus A320 family jets. This milestone elevated its backlog for the A320neo, A321neo, and A321XLR variants to almost 1,000 aircraft. Including the A350s, IndiGo’s total aircraft on order now stands at approximately 1,400.

The airline has already received more than 455 aircraft to date. Its burgeoning order book reflects a strategy attuned to expansion, network reach, and competitive cost efficiency.

Airbus remains optimistic regarding opportunities in the Indian market beyond widebodies. Remi Maillard, President of Airbus India & South Asia, underscored the potential for A220 aircraft to effectively cater to India’s regional routes. These smaller jets offer the agility required on less-trafficked routes while complementing the A350 family’s long-haul capabilities.

Furthermore, Airbus aims to increase its sourcing from India, currently procuring up to $1.4 billion worth of components annually from Indian suppliers and aspiring to elevate that amount by $600 million “well before the end of this decade,” according to Maillard.

Market Dynamics

India’s aviation landscape is experiencing rapid growth, propelled by a youthful demographic, an expanding middle class, and favorable geographical advantages.

Situated strategically between Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, India is becoming an essential connection point for global air travel.

As of May 31, Airbus had recorded 1,391 orders for the A350 family and delivered 648 units worldwide.

The estimated list price for an A350-900 reaches $308.1 million, while the A350-1000 is valued at $355.7 million, although final pricing typically results from private negotiations.

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