TBM Staff - Mumbai
IndiGo’s Chief Executive, Pieter Elbers, emphasised the importance of airlines in India that match the country’s size, scale, and global potential. Speaking at the CNBC TV18 Global Leadership Summit, he expressed that airlines like IndiGo need to grow to compete effectively on the global aviation stage. He also discussed the trend of consolidation in the aviation sector, similar to developments in the US and Europe, which is now also occurring in India. This trend is vital for elevating India’s presence in global aviation.
Elbers pointed out that India, with its vast potential, needs airlines that are as significant as the country itself, similar to the size and scale of major banks or consumer products. He believes this will allow India to effectively compete globally and elevate the country’s aviation brand. IndiGo, in particular, is positioning itself to be one of the leading airlines that can carry the “India” brand to the global stage.
IndiGo, which has grown enormously over the past 18 years, aligns itself with India’s entrepreneurial and aspirational spirit. Elbers believes the country deserves a product that is both cost-competitive and aspirational in nature. The airline’s extensive domestic presence and its growing international reach reflect this alignment with India’s changing aspirations.
Elbers also shared that IndiGo is the seventh-largest airline globally in terms of its international footprint. The airline currently operates in over 30 international destinations, with plans to expand to 40 by the end of the year. With an aircraft being added almost weekly, IndiGo aims to spread its wings further, increasing its presence in key global markets.
The Chief Executive further highlighted the opportunities for Indian airlines to expand their international traffic. Elbers noted that there are many regions globally where foreign airlines have a strong presence in India, but Indian carriers have not yet established themselves. He sees this as a significant growth area for IndiGo and the broader Indian aviation industry in the future.
