India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is set to temporarily halt its Mumbai-Manchester route starting August 31, 2026, due to enduring airspace restrictions, extended flight durations, and escalating operating expenses. This decision arises from numerous challenges currently plaguing international aviation, such as geopolitical tensions, elevated fuel prices, and disruptions in flight routes, all of which have significantly driven up the costs of long-haul operations.
In conjunction with this suspension, IndiGo will return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft it had leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. These aircraft were initially leased in early 2025 to aid in the airline’s expansion into European markets, ahead of receiving its own Airbus A350 fleet. Despite this setback, IndiGo has assured that this suspension is only temporary and will not impact its other long-haul international services, which are expected to continue as planned.
IndiGo’s venture into the European market has reportedly been met with robust customer demand and has solidified the airline’s presence in critical international markets. However, the financial viability of the Manchester route has been compromised by longer flight times due to airspace limitations, along with increasing aviation turbine fuel costs and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management, expressed that while the decision is regrettable, it is necessary under the current circumstances. He emphasized the airline’s positive reception from customers and reaffirmed IndiGo’s intent to resume the service when conditions improve.
Additionally, IndiGo is actively exploring other avenues to maintain its partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways while continuing to pursue its broader international growth strategy. Affected passengers will receive advance notifications and assistance in the form of alternative travel arrangements or refunds when applicable.