IndiGo, India’s leading airline, will temporarily halt its flights on the Mumbai-Manchester route starting August 31, 2026. The decision comes as the airline faces prolonged airspace restrictions, increased flight durations, and rising operational costs. Challenges such as geopolitical tensions, higher fuel prices, and disrupted routes have significantly impacted the cost of operating long-haul services, prompting this suspension.
In light of this development, IndiGo plans to return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. These aircraft were initially brought in early 2025 to support the airline’s expansion into the European market while awaiting the arrival of its own Airbus A350 fleet. Despite the suspension, IndiGo assures that its other long-haul international services remain unaffected and will continue as scheduled.
The airline’s expansion into Europe has attracted strong customer demand and established its presence in significant international markets. However, the financial viability of the Manchester route has been compromised due to longer flight times caused by airspace constraints, coupled with rising aviation turbine fuel costs and foreign exchange volatility. As a result, the route has become economically challenging to maintain.
Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management at IndiGo, expressed that the decision to suspend the route was regrettable but essential given the current operating conditions. He highlighted the positive customer response to the service and reaffirmed the airline’s intention to resume flights once conditions improve.
IndiGo is also looking into alternative strategies to continue its partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways while pursuing its international growth plans. Passengers impacted by the suspension will be informed in advance and provided with assistance, including alternative travel arrangements or refunds where applicable.