Making its first-ever purchase of widebody aircraft, IndiGo has placed an order of 30 A350-900 jets with Airbus. IndiGo, which has a 60% share of the Indian aviation market, aims to double its capacity by 2030 and expand its network internationally.
In addition to the purchase of 30 planes, IndiGo has also signed up for purchase rights for 70 additional A350 aircraft. The new planes will allow the airline to operate ultra-long-distance flights — including possible India-US direct flights — putting it in direct competition with Air India and Vistara.
Last year, IndiGo had announced a 500-aircraft deal with Airbus, which was a record in the history of aviation, and the airline’s current outstanding order book stands at a whopping 1,000 planes.
“IndiGo agreed to place an order for 30 Firm A350-900 aircraft, which will enable IndiGo to spread its wings further and expand its network. From the various Indian metros, IndiGo will be able to connect to the world. The aircraft will be powered by Rolls Royce’s Trent XWB engine,” a statement by the airline said.
“The mission capability of this aircraft coupled with the efficiency of the Trent XWB engine will offer IndiGo unprecedented optionality as it embarks on the next stage of its wonderful journey of addressing the rapidly evolving needs of the Indian customer and our nation,” it added.
