‍DALLAS — IndiGo (6E) will operate its first long-haul flights this summer, introducing two nonstop intercontinental flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Manchester (MAN) and Amsterdam (AMS). As part of its international expansion plans, the airline will operate both routes three times weekly on Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

Flying from July 1 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, BOM–MAN’s return leg operates on the same days, taking off early morning. 6E opens its service to AMS on July 2, thus starting the BOM–AMS flight on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and the AMS-BOM flight on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

The carrier is the sole provider with nonstop connections between India, Northern England, and the Netherlands.

The Dreamliner-operated flights are part of a larger effort to make 6E a global player in the long-haul market. Though the airline’s A321XLR and A350-900 aircraft are still several years away from delivery, the wide-body leases have positioned it to establish a strong presence in high-growth, high-demand European markets.

IndiGoStretch Makes Things Better

Onboard, 6E has unveiled IndiGoStretch, its premium product, which features 56 seats arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration with plenty of legroom and recline. With a spacious pitch and a comfort-focused design, economy class has 282 seats arranged in a 3-3-3 configuration.

Additional perks for IndiGoStretch passengers include priority check-in, anytime boarding, seat pre-selection, no convenience fees, and a larger baggage allowance. Free meals and drinks, including alcoholic ones, are provided. While alcoholic beverages can be purchased, vegetarian hot meals and non-alcoholic drinks are free to all economy class passengers.

Strategic Expansion, Bilateral Impact

The new offerings complement 6E's mission to help India become a major centre for international aviation. In addition to the Indian diaspora in the UK and the Netherlands, the routes are designed to meet the increasing needs of tourists, students, and business travellers looking for nonstop, reasonably priced long-haul flights from India.

The route is anticipated to improve Manchester's access to the North of England, which is home to a sizable population of people of Indian descent and an increasing number of bilateral commerce and cultural alliances. Recent events that will benefit from direct air links include the city hosting the England-India cricket Test series this summer and opening a new Indian consulate.

The connectivity at AMS demonstrates the close business and diplomatic links between India and the Netherlands. 6E's entry is expected to enhance its reputation in continental Europe by facilitating more trade, tourism, and student travel.

Long-Haul Plans Take Shape

Long-haul service to MAN and AMS are just the start. As it starts receiving new-generation aircraft this year, 6E intends to introduce more wide-bodies and start operating in more cities worldwide. Thanks to its collaboration with Norse and impending fleet expansion, the airline is positioned to service longer-haul routes while upholding its distinctive cost-conscious approach.

These routes mark a new stage in 6E's development as the airline moves beyond its historical low-cost, short-haul beginnings and boldly enters the global aviation market.