IndiGo launches direct long-haul flights between Mumbai and Manchester

IndiGo launches direct long-haul flights between Mumbai and Manchester

In a significant step towards international expansion, IndiGo has launched its first-ever long-haul direct flight service between Mumbai and Manchester, marking a major milestone in the airline’s global ambitions.

The thrice-weekly service, operating every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, will be operated using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft under a damp lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways. This marks IndiGo’s debut in the long-haul market and is part of its internationalisation strategy, ‘Towards New Heights and Across New Frontiers’.

The new route is expected to cater to business travellers, students, tourists, and the sizable Indian diaspora in the UK. It is also aimed at boosting economic, educational, and cultural exchanges between India and the UK.

“As we embark on our long-haul journey with the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Manchester, this moment marks our transition from a successful regional carrier to one with growing global relevance,” said Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo.

Highlighting the premium offerings on board, Elbers added, “We are delighted to offer specially curated complimentary hot meals and beverages to all passengers, with an elevated dining and service experience. This milestone is a reflection of IndiGo’s growing global ambition and contribution to India’s emergence as a global aviation hub.”

The aircraft is configured with 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy seats, each equipped with individual entertainment screens offering over 300 hours of content. Meals will feature Indian regional cuisine in partnership with domestic brands.

Flight schedule (local times):

--Flight 6E 0031: Departs Mumbai at 04:25, arrives in Manchester at 10:05

--Flight 6E 0032: Departs Manchester at 12:05, arrives in Mumbai at 01:55 (next day)

With this launch, IndiGo aims to strengthen connectivity between India and the UK while positioning itself as a serious contender in the international aviation landscape.