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

GURUGRAM— IndiGo Airlines (6E), India’s foremost low-cost carrier, is on the verge of transforming its purchase rights for an additional 40 Airbus A350 aircraft into confirmed orders, as reported by The Economic Times. These advanced long-range widebody jets are anticipated to bolster IndiGo’s expanding aspirations for international long-haul operations from its primary hub in Delhi (DEL).

Currently the largest airline in India by market share, IndiGo had initially placed an order for 30 Airbus A350-900s and later updated this order by confirming 30 more in June 2024, resulting in a total of 60 aircraft. The potential addition of 40 more A350s could elevate IndiGo’s total widebody fleet to an impressive 100 aircraft.

Airbus executive Benoit de Saint-Exupéry has acknowledged IndiGo’s intent to acquire more widebody aircraft, noting that the airline’s initial procurement of purchase rights indicates a forward-thinking strategy.

“Given the growth and dynamics of the Indian market, it’s easy to see the demand for enhanced, long-range aircraft,” he stated.

While a specific timeline for these orders has not been disclosed, this development underscores IndiGo’s commitment to expanding its reach beyond its traditional domestic and short-haul international routes.

The delivery of the 60 confirmed Airbus A350-900s is scheduled to commence in mid-2027. Capable of flying up to 18,000 km without refueling, these aircraft symbolize a significant step forward in the airline’s international expansion plans.

It remains uncertain whether this new order will feature the larger A350-1000 variant, which can accommodate more passengers (up to 410) and has a greater range compared to the A350-900.

At present, Air India (AI) holds the distinction of being the only Indian carrier with A350-1000s on order, which will include a four-class setup, featuring first class.

For IndiGo, which has traditionally emphasized a single-class, low-cost model, incorporating the A350-1000 could suggest a strategic diversification, especially if it aims to rival full-service competitors on high-demand, long-haul routes.

Historic Aircraft Orders and Fleet Composition

In a landmark order placed in June 2023, IndiGo secured the largest single aircraft order in history: 500 Airbus A320 family jets. This expanded its backlog for the A320neo, A321neo, and A321XLR variants to nearly 1,000 aircraft. Including the A350s, IndiGo now boasts around 1,400 aircraft on order.

To date, the airline has received over 455 aircraft. This substantial order portfolio highlights a strategy focused on increasing scale, enhancing network reach, and achieving competitive cost efficiency.

Airbus maintains a positive outlook for the Indian market beyond widebody aircraft. Remi Maillard, President of Airbus India & South Asia, emphasized the potential for A220 aircraft to address India’s regional aviation needs, as these smaller aircraft can effectively cater to less populated routes requiring flexibility.

Additionally, Airbus intends to amplify its sourcing from India. Currently, the company sources up to $1.4 billion in components annually from Indian suppliers, aiming to increase this figure by $600 million “well before the end of this decade,” Maillard disclosed.

Market Dynamics

India’s aviation sector is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by a young population, an expanding middle class, and advantageous geographical positioning.

Strategically located between Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, India is emerging as a crucial hub for global air travel.

As of May 31, Airbus reported receiving 1,391 orders for the A350 family and had delivered 648 units across the globe.

The retail price for the A350-900 is approximately $308.1 million, while the A350-1000 is valued at around $355.7 million; however, final prices often result from confidential negotiations.

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