Budget Airline Expands Long-Distance Services from Its Expanded Offerings
IndiGo, a major Indian airline and the world's third largest budget carrier, has launched direct UK operations with the goal of disrupting the mid and long haul market traditionally dominated by legacy carriers. As part of its global growth plan, IndiGo is adding one new aircraft a week until the end of the decade, with over 900 aircraft on order, making it the world's largest aircraft backlog.
The airline's new thrice weekly nonstop link between Mumbai, India's financial capital, and Manchester, England, marks the airline's entry into territory mostly unexplored by low-cost airlines. The Manchester-Mumbai route is the first direct link between the two cities in over a decade and the only nonstop flight to India from any UK airport outside London.
IndiGo's long-haul Dreamliner service between Manchester and Mumbai offers competitive pricing, generous baggage allowances, and thoughtful in-flight amenities designed for comfort and value. Economy class round-trip fares start at approximately £426, while IndiGo Stretch (business class equivalent) fares start at about £870. These prices significantly undercut legacy carriers on the same route, reflecting IndiGo’s value-oriented approach.
Stretch passengers can enjoy forward cabin roomier seating with extra legroom and power outlets, 46kg checked baggage allowance and 12kg hand luggage, lounge access at select airports, complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages (including alcohol), and blankets and pillows. Economy passengers can expect complimentary hot meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages, while alcoholic beverages, blankets, pillows, and amenity kits are available for purchase.
In terms of baggage, Economy passengers can check up to 30kg of luggage and carry 7kg of hand luggage, while IndiGo Stretch passengers can check up to 46kg and carry 12kg. Stretch also offers priority services and lounge access at select airports.
The service is operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners leased from Norse Atlantic Airways, known for comfort and fuel efficiency. Flights operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with a flight duration of approximately 10 hours non-stop.
Unique offerings such as artisanal blue corn chips and a tricolour mithai celebrating India's spirit enhance the cultural experience onboard. IndiGo's vast domestic network of more than 90 destinations allows passengers landing in Mumbai to easily continue to cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Kochi.
IndiGo's expansion comes as national carrier Air India is reeling from reputational damage and reduced services following the tragic AI171 crash in Ahmedabad. The timing of IndiGo's expansion coincides with this challenging period for Air India, potentially providing a viable alternative for travellers seeking reliable and affordable air travel.
In summary, IndiGo’s new Manchester–Mumbai Dreamliner route blends affordable pricing with enhanced comfort, making it an attractive option for business travelers, tourists, students, and the Indian diaspora in the UK.
IndiGo's entry into the Manchester-Mumbai route, promoting a value-oriented lifestyle with competitive pricing and thoughtful in-flight amenities, marks a significant stride in the travel industry, especially in the realm of lifestyle and technology. This new service, a testament to IndiGo's ambition to disrupt the traditionally dominated long-haul market, is set to reshape airline news and influence future travel trends.
