IndiGo to Suspend London Flights, End Boeing 787 Lease with Norse Atlantic from October 25

IndiGo has announced that it will discontinue its leased Boeing 787 wide-body operations from October 25, 2026, bringing its damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways to an end. The airline cited a challenging global operating environment driven by geopolitical tensions while maintaining that its long-term international expansion strategy remains firmly on track.

As part of the transition, London Heathrow services will be temporarily suspended, while the airline's Mumbai-Amsterdam route will continue to operate using the Airbus A321XLR.

London Heathrow Flights to Be Suspended

From October 25, IndiGo will temporarily halt flights to and from London Heathrow until it begins inducting its own Airbus A350-900 aircraft into the fleet.

Meanwhile, the airline confirmed that its Mumbai-Amsterdam service will continue uninterrupted using the Airbus A321XLR, allowing it to maintain a presence in the European market.

Passengers affected by the suspension will be offered alternative travel options or refunds, wherever applicable.

Why Is IndiGo Ending the Boeing 787 Programme?

IndiGo began leasing six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from Norse Atlantic Airways in early 2025 under a damp lease arrangement to launch limited long-haul international operations.

According to the airline, the programme was designed to:

• Build experience in long-haul operations.
• Strengthen its international network.
• Train crews for wide-body operations.
• Enhance maintenance and airport handling capabilities.
• Prepare for the arrival of its Airbus A350 fleet.

However, changing global conditions prompted the airline to reassess the programme.

Geopolitical Challenges Behind the Decision

IndiGo said several external factors have significantly affected the viability of leased wide-body operations.

These include:

• Ongoing geopolitical tensions.
• Airspace restrictions.
• Higher aviation fuel prices.
• Currency fluctuations.
• Rising operational costs.

The airline said these challenges have impacted schedule reliability, route efficiency, connectivity and overall competitiveness, making it prudent to end the temporary leasing arrangement.

Long-Term International Expansion Remains Unchanged

Despite winding up the Boeing 787 operations, IndiGo stressed that its long-haul ambitions remain intact.

Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President – Planning and Revenue Management, said the Boeing 787 programme was always intended as a transitional step to prepare the airline for its future wide-body fleet.

He added that the operational experience gained during the programme has strengthened IndiGo's confidence in expanding internationally over the coming years.

Airbus A350 Fleet to Drive Next Growth Phase

IndiGo's long-term strategy now centres on the induction of its Airbus A350-900 aircraft, which are expected to become the backbone of its future long-haul network.

Until then, the airline plans to expand its European presence using the Airbus A321XLR, enabling it to serve select medium- and long-haul destinations efficiently.

Passengers to Receive Rebooking or Refunds

IndiGo said it will work closely with passengers affected by the operational changes.

Eligible customers will be offered:

• Alternative flight options.
• Rebooking assistance.
• Refunds where applicable.

The airline said it aims to ensure a smooth transition while minimizing disruption to travellers.

Key Highlights

• IndiGo will end its Boeing 787 damp lease with Norse Atlantic Airways on October 25, 2026.
• London Heathrow flights will be temporarily suspended.
• Mumbai-Amsterdam flights will continue using the Airbus A321XLR.
• The airline cited geopolitical tensions, fuel costs and operational challenges.
• IndiGo says its long-term international expansion plans remain unchanged.
• Future long-haul operations will be powered by the Airbus A350-900 fleet.

FAQs

Why is IndiGo suspending London flights?

IndiGo cited geopolitical uncertainties, airspace restrictions, higher fuel prices and operational costs as key reasons for temporarily suspending its London Heathrow service.

When will IndiGo stop operating Boeing 787 aircraft?

The airline will discontinue leased Boeing 787 operations from October 25, 2026, when its agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways concludes.

Will IndiGo continue flying to Europe?

Yes. The Mumbai-Amsterdam route will continue using the Airbus A321XLR, and the airline plans to expand further after receiving its Airbus A350 aircraft.

What will happen to passengers with London bookings?

Affected passengers will be offered alternative travel arrangements or refunds, depending on their booking eligibility.

Is IndiGo cancelling its international expansion plans?

No. The airline has reiterated that its long-term global expansion strategy remains unchanged and will continue with the induction of Airbus A350-900 aircraft.