IndiGo Boosts Fleet with Corendon Boeing 737s for Winter
IndiGo Airlines, based out of Delhi International, has secured a wet-lease agreement for six B737 aircraft from Corendon Airlines for the upcoming northern winter season. This strategic move, researched and reported by ch-aviation, is set to enhance IndiGo’s operational capacity from December 14, 2024, to March 29, 2025, amidst ongoing fleet shortages.
The B737s, to be stationed in Chennai, will service a broad network of routes across India. The operational schedule includes 13 weekly flights to Ahmedabad, twice-daily flights to Bhubaneshwar, weekly flights to Vadodara, and daily services to several major cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Ranchi, and Jaipur. This extensive coverage is designed to meet the high demand during the peak travel season, ensuring robust connectivity across IndiGo’s domestic network.
The arrival of the aircraft, with at least two B737-8s, namely TC-MKC (msn 65900) and TC-MKD (msn 65186), already ferried to India, marks a significant reinforcement of IndiGo’s fleet. IndiGo has been grappling with aircraft shortages due to issues with Pratt & Whitney engines and broader supply chain disruptions affecting the aviation sector. To mitigate these challenges, IndiGo has already engaged in multiple wet-lease agreements, including fifteen A320-200s from various SmartLynx operators, six B737-8s from Qatar Airways, and two B777-300ERs from Turkish Airlines.
The wet-lease strategy not only addresses immediate operational needs but also aligns with regulatory changes in India. Following the pandemic, the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has relaxed stringent rules that previously governed the wet-leasing of foreign aircraft. This regulatory shift is part of a broader effort to streamline oversight of wet-leased aircraft from countries that score highly on the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme, enhancing the efficiency and safety of such operations.
This development is a testament to IndiGo’s proactive approach in navigating the complex dynamics of the global aviation industry, ensuring sustained service excellence despite logistical challenges. As IndiGo continues to expand its fleet and operational capabilities, such strategic leases play a crucial role in maintaining its position as a leading airline in the competitive Indian market.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com