IndiGo is gearing up for an ambitious expansion in the current fiscal year. The airline is aiming to introduce flights to two exciting international destinations – Bali in Indonesia and Medina in Saudi Arabia. 

While making the announcement on Monday, IndiGo Chief Pieter Elbers highlighted that the strategic move showcases the airline’s unwavering commitment to expanding its global network.

IndiGo aims to carry 100 million passengers in FY24

Elbers also expressed confidence in IndiGo’s ability to reach its target of carrying 100 million passengers during the current financial year. 

In the recently concluded September quarter, the airline made a significant mark by posting a net profit of Rs 189 crore and successfully accommodating 26 million passengers.

“We will continue our internationalisation,” stated Elbers, emphasising the airline’s ongoing efforts to broaden its horizons. 

IndiGo’s network and global outreach

Presently, IndiGo operates an extensive network of approximately 500 routes, with 100 of them being international. 

In line with this international expansion, the airline CEO announced plans to launch flights to the enchanting island of Bali in Indonesia and the historic city of Medina in Saudi Arabia within the current financial year, which concludes on March 31, 2024.

85 domestic, 32 international destinations

IndiGo is already a formidable presence in the aviation industry, serving 32 international and 85 domestic destinations with a daily operation of over 1,900 flights. The airline has also established international codeshare agreements with various airlines, enhancing its connectivity and reach.

In preparation for further expansion, IndiGo has placed orders for A321 XLR planes, anticipated to join its fleet in late 2024 or early 2025. Pieter Elbers shared his excitement about the prospects the A321 XLR brings, mentioning that it will significantly extend the airline’s reach into Europe, offering connections to cities like Athens, and further into Asia, with destinations like Seoul firmly on the radar.

IndiGo’s expansion plans

IndiGo has a substantial number of aircraft orders in the pipeline, totaling around 970 planes, underscoring the company’s continued growth aspirations.

“XLR will help us expand our range… when XLRs come in, that can bring us further into Europe to places like Athens… it can bring further into Asia to places like Seoul…,” Elbers said.

However, despite its ambitious plans, the airline has been grappling with Pratt & Whitney engine issues, which have led to the grounding of approximately 40 aircraft due to these problems. 

In response, IndiGo is diligently working on a set of mitigating measures to address this challenge, which includes taking planes on wet lease, retaining CEO (current engine option) aircraft, and leasing additional CEO planes from the secondary market.