IndiGo is intensifying its international growth strategy, targeting the vast global market within 5-6 hours of India’s major cities. CEO Pieter Elbers outlined the airline’s plan to extend its international reach by capitalising on its strategic location as an Indian carrier.
In a bid to mirror its domestic success, IndiGo has prioritised a swift expansion of international routes. Over the past year, it has added 24 overseas routes, marking a 32 percent expansion since October of the previous year. The international sector now contributes 26 percent of IndiGo’s traffic, up from 20 percent a year ago, to reach 30 percent by the following year, as Elbers announced.
IndiGo is set to include Bali and Medina as new destinations during the current fiscal year. The airline is employing a three-fold approach to broaden its global footprint, expanding its network and establishing route and code-sharing partnerships with major international carriers. This strategy positions IndiGo to transition from a primarily domestic airline to a global one.
However, the airline’s expansion may face challenges due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues, which affect nearly 134 of IndiGo’s aircraft. US-based RTX, the engine manufacturer, plans to recall 600-700 engines between 2023 and 2026, impacting the operation of around 350 aircraft annually, including 45 of IndiGo’s planes. Elbers assured that despite these challenges, the airline will maintain its capacity growth target of 25 percent.
