TBM Staff - Mumbai
Indian carriers currently rely on domestic passengers for 80% of their business, with only 20% coming from overseas, indicating a need for rebalancing. Analysts anticipate that IndiGo will emerge as a significant player in the long and ultra-long haul segments, aiming to address this imbalance.
The decision to enter the long-haul market follows years of contemplation, beginning as early as 2018. IndiGo explored various options, including the Airbus A330 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, before ultimately selecting the A350-900.
IndiGo’s choice of the A350 was influenced by its compatibility with the existing fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. A common cockpit design facilitates pilot training, allowing existing pilots to transition to the A350 with minimal additional training. Similarly, engineers can undergo expedited training to work on the A350, leveraging their experience with IndiGo’s current fleet.
The A350 aircraft chosen by IndiGo will be equipped with Rolls-Royce’s Trent XWB engine. Ewen McDonald, CCO, Rolls-Royce, emphasised the importance of the Indian market, expressing optimism about future growth and infrastructure developments in air travel.
