GURUGRAM— India’s Largest LCC, IndiGo Airlines (6E), is reportedly close to converting its purchase rights for 40 additional Airbus A350 aircraft into firm orders, according to The Economic Times. The long-range widebody jets are expected to support IndiGo’s growing ambitions in international long-haul operations out of its key base at Delhi (DEL).
The airline, India’s largest by market share, had initially ordered 30 Airbus A350-900s and later confirmed 30 more in June 2024, bringing its total to 60. The potential addition of 40 more A350s would push IndiGo’s future widebody fleet to 100 aircraft.
Photo: Pieter ElbersIndiGo New A350 Order
Airbus executive Benoit de Saint-Exupéry confirmed IndiGo’s intent to secure more widebody aircraft, stating the airline’s original acquisition of purchase rights reflected clear strategic foresight.
“Given the growth and dynamics of the Indian market, it’s easy to understand why there’s a demand for more advanced, long-range aircraft,” he said.
While no specific timeline has been shared for the next batch of orders, the move signals IndiGo’s continued push beyond its traditionally domestic and short-haul international routes.
Deliveries of the 60 confirmed Airbus A350-900s are scheduled to begin in mid-2027. These aircraft, capable of flying up to 18,000 km non-stop, mark a new phase for the airline’s international aspirations.
It remains unclear whether the next order will include the larger A350-1000 variant. The A350-1000 offers more capacity (up to 410 passengers) and range than the A350-900.
Currently, Air India (AI) is the only Indian carrier with A350-1000s on order, featuring a four-class configuration, including first class.
For IndiGo, which has historically focused on a single-class, low-cost model, a shift to the A350-1000 could imply operational diversification — particularly if it seeks to compete with full-service rivals on high-demand, long-haul sectors.
Photo: IndiGoHistoric Aircraft Orders and Fleet Composition
In June 2023, IndiGo placed the world’s largest single aircraft order: 500 Airbus A320 family jets. This brought its total backlog for the A320neo, A321neo, and A321XLR variants to nearly 1,000 aircraft. Including the A350s, IndiGo now has approximately 1,400 aircraft on order.
To date, the airline has already received more than 455 aircraft. Its expanding order book underscores a strategy centered on scale, network reach, and competitive cost-efficiency.
Airbus is optimistic about the Indian market beyond widebodies. Remi Maillard, President of Airbus India & South Asia, highlighted the potential for A220 aircraft to serve India’s regional routes. These smaller jets offer flexibility on thin routes with lower demand, complementing the long-haul capabilities of the A350 family.
Airbus also plans to increase its sourcing from India. The European aerospace giant currently procures up to $1.4 billion in components annually from Indian suppliers and aims to boost that figure by $600 million “well before the end of this decade,” according to Maillard.
Photo: Siddh Dhuri | MumbaiPlanesMarket Dynamics
India’s aviation sector is growing rapidly, driven by a youthful population, a strengthening middle class, and strategic geographical advantages.
Positioned between Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, India is becoming a key connector for global air travel.
As of May 31, Airbus had received 1,391 orders for the A350 family and delivered 648 units globally.
The list price for an A350-900 is estimated at $308.1 million, while the A350-1000 is valued at $355.7 million, though final pricing is often the result of confidential negotiations.
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