IndiGo to add Airbus A350 jets from 2028 as CEO eyes long‑haul growth

IndiGo will begin receiving Airbus A350 wide‑body jets from the second quarter of 2028, CEO Willie Walsh announced in his first in‑person briefing since taking over in August. He said the airline sees many opportunities and will navigate industry challenges by keeping an excellent cost base. Walsh added that IndiGo has all the ingredients to succeed in the long‑haul market and linked the upcoming A350s to the carrier’s ambition to enter that segment. He warned that rising fuel prices and a weakening rupee have squeezed airline profits. In the September quarter, IndiGo posted a loss of ₹1,879.1 crore and trimmed capacity to cope with the headwinds. Regarding the new Navi Mumbai airport, Walsh called it a big opportunity and explained the decision to shift some international flights there in the airline’s interest. The carrier now operates more than 2,100 flights daily with a fleet of over 400 aircraft.

Context

The A350 is a wide‑body aircraft used by many carriers for long‑distance routes, and acquiring it marks IndiGo’s move beyond its traditional short‑haul domestic focus. Fuel price volatility and currency swings have been common pressures on Indian airlines this year.