IndiGo to introduce business, premium economy and economy cabins on A350 aircraft from 2028

IndiGo Airlines is all set to introduce business class, premium economy and economy cabins on its Airbus A350-900 aircraft as the airline prepares to expand its long-haul international operations from 2028.

The first A350-900 aircraft are expected to join the airline's fleet in the second quarter of 2028. IndiGo Chief Executive Officer Willie Walsh confirmed that the cabin configuration for the first 10 aircraft has been finalised.

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The aircraft will have 16 lie-flat seats in business class, alongside separate premium economy and economy cabins. The move marks a shift towards offering more travel options to passengers, including those looking for premium services on long-distance international routes.

IndiGo has traditionally followed a low-cost, no-frills business model, focusing largely on domestic and short-haul international travel. However, its planned A350 operations are expected to support its ambitions to establish a stronger presence in the long-haul aviation market.

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The airline currently has around a 65 per cent share of India's domestic aviation market, making it the country's largest carrier. Its long-haul expansion will complement its existing international operations using Airbus A321 XLR aircraft.

IndiGo's Amsterdam operations and long-haul plans

IndiGo had earlier operated long-haul international flights using damp-leased Boeing 787-9 aircraft. However, those services have since been discontinued.

Walsh said the airline would continue operating its Airbus A321 XLR services to Amsterdam to retain its airport slots until the A350 aircraft arrive.

This means the airline intends to maintain its presence on the Amsterdam route while preparing for the next phase of its long-haul expansion.

The A350 fleet is expected to play a central role in IndiGo's plans to operate longer international routes. The addition of business-class and premium economy seating will also give passengers more cabin choices than the airline's traditional economy-focused offering.

Airline reviews fuel-hedging policy

Separately, IndiGo is reviewing the fuel-hedging policies followed by airlines operating in India. Fuel costs are a significant expense for airlines and changes in aviation fuel prices can affect operating costs and ticket prices. Fuel hedging allows airlines to manage their exposure to price fluctuations by securing fuel prices or using financial instruments.

Walsh said the airline had no immediate plans to begin fuel hedging while the review was under way.

“There are no plans to start hedging until the review is complete,” he said.

Walsh also identified Mumbai and the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport as important to IndiGo's future long-haul growth plans.

The development of airport infrastructure in the Mumbai region could support the airline's plans to expand its international network and increase its long-distance operations.

With its first A350 aircraft expected in 2028, IndiGo is preparing for a broader international offering that will include multiple cabin classes and more options for passengers travelling on long-haul routes.