To counter challenges posed by the ongoing tensions with Pakistan, IndiGo, plans to expand its operations to East and North-East Asia, industry sources told businessline.

As per sources, India’s largest airline plans to commence flights to countries such as Cambodia, South Korea, Japan, and even China – likely from September 2025.

The plan comes as a response to the current geopolitical situation, which has led to the closure of the Western airspace over Pakistan.

Sources told businessline, that the plan will help IndiGo diversify its route network and allow it to capitalise on the growing demand for air travel.

“Rework on potential new destinations has taken place since the disruption caused due to the recent hostilities,” sources said.

“Flights to new destinations such as Cambodia, South Korea, and Japan are on the cards.”

Addition to fleet

Speaking to businessline, industry experts said that the East Asian market offers immense potential for growth, driven by increasing economic ties and tourism.

Besides, sources said, the addition of 787s and the upcoming induction of XLRs will boost international operations.

“These new flights will be started only after the commencement of Amsterdam and Manchester operations,” sources said.

“The Boeing 787s will play a crucial part in this expansion and later on the XLRs.”

Notably, IndiGo plans to boost its wide-body fleet by damp-leasing six Boeing 787-9 aircraft from Norse Atlantic Airways.

Accordingly, the first of these leased aircraft has been deployed on the Delhi–Bangkok route.

Plans for Europe

Commenting on the induction of the Boeing 787, IndiGo’s Chief Executive Pieter Elbers said, “This move reinforces our commitment to international growth and to our customers, promising to introduce more options on long-haul routes.”

“As we accelerate towards our vision of becoming a global airline by 2030, this partnership enables us to bolster our wide-body operations while staying rooted in our India-first approach.”

Meanwhile, undeterred by Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace, IndiGo is set to proceed with its European expansion plan, with ticket bookings for its new flights to Amsterdam and Manchester expected to open soon.

Accordingly, the low-cost carrier plans to initially operate these services from a key Indian city to these prominent European destinations as part of its expanding international network.

Sources had earlier told businessline that the airline would follow a three-day and four-day schedule for its flights to Amsterdam and Manchester.

However, with the recent closure of Pakistan’s airspace, IndiGo is also considering adjustments to its flight operations.

Published on May 19, 2025