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New Delhi: India's largest airline IndiGo is preparing for a major global expansion push, with plans to increase its international operations to around 40% of total capacity by fiscal year 2030. The airline's entry into long-haul flying with the Airbus The A350 aircraft is expected to become a key milestone in this transformation.

IndiGo CEO Willie Walsh said the successful introduction of the Airbus A350 would be the airline's “single biggest milestone” in the next five years as it looks to expand international connectivity and compete in global aviation markets.

Airbus A350 Fleet to Power IndiGo's Long-Haul Ambitions

IndiGo has placed an order for 60 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, with the first deliveries expected from 2028. The wide-body aircraft will allow the airline to operate longer international routes and strengthen its presence beyond short-haul markets.

Walsh said the airline's international growth strategy will focus on carefully selected routes with strong commercial potential rather than just adding capacity.

“We expect to grow our international capacity to about 40% of our overall capacity by fiscal year 2030,” he said.

Global Expansion With Focus on Profitability

The IndiGo CEO stressed that profitability will remain at the center of the airline's international expansion plans.

He said the airline aims to maintain cost leadership while building a profitable long-haul network. The carrier is also looking to improve connectivity between India and major global destinations, including markets with a strong Indian diaspora presence.

IndiGo Strengthens Operations After Disruptions

Addressing operational challenges, Walsh said IndiGo has taken several corrective steps, including improved manpower planning, better crew rostering and dedicated crisis management teams.

The airline has also introduced early warning systems, predictive tools and stronger operational monitoring to reduce flight disruptions.

IndiGo currently has more than 6,000 pilots and added over 330 pilots during the financial year to support future growth.

AI Push and Aviation Hub Vision

Walsh also highlighted IndiGo's plans to become an AI-enabled airline, using artificial intelligence to improve customer service, internal operations and efficiency.

He added that India has the potential to become a major global aviation hub similar to leading hubs in the Middle East and Europe.

With its A350 fleet, international expansion plans and technology-driven approach, IndiGo is aiming to move from being India's dominant domestic carrier to a major global airline player.