IndiGo Launches Nonstop Flights to Manchester, Amsterdam
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, is launching its first long-haul, nonstop flights from Mumbai to Manchester and Amsterdam using wet-leased Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from Norse Atlantic Airways. The Mumbai to Manchester service will commence on July 1, 2025, making IndiGo the only airline offering direct flights between the two cities. Flights will operate three times a week, departing Mumbai at 04:15 and arriving in Manchester at 09:15 the same day. Return flights will leave Manchester at noon and land in Mumbai at 01:35 the following day. On July 2, 2025, IndiGo will also begin thrice-weekly nonstop service from Mumbai to Amsterdam. Departures are scheduled at 05:25, arriving at 11:00, with the return flight departing Amsterdam at 14:00 and arriving in Mumbai at 01:55 the next day.
These new routes mark a major shift for IndiGo as it expands beyond its traditional low-cost, short-haul model. The airline will offer complimentary hot meals and beverages on both long-haul flights, served by cabin crew trained to provide an upgraded service experience. The in-flight menu will showcase Indian cuisine and partner with iconic local brands, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to highlighting India’s culinary identity on the global stage.
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers emphasized the importance of these launches in the airline’s international growth strategy. He noted that the Manchester service would benefit from seamless domestic connections to over 90 cities in India through IndiGo’s network, making it easier for travelers from the UK to explore India. The Manchester route is also expected to strengthen trade, tourism, and cultural ties between India and the UK, particularly benefiting the large Indian diaspora in northern England.
Manchester Airport Managing Director Chris Woodroofe welcomed the new route, highlighting the significance of having a direct link between the north of England and India. He noted that this connection comes at a time of growing engagement between India and the region, supported by recent diplomatic, economic, and cultural developments, including the opening of a new Indian consulate in Manchester.
IndiGo’s new Amsterdam route underscores its goal to enhance accessibility for Indian travelers to Europe while showcasing its vast domestic network to European passengers. Elbers described the launch as a move to deepen India–Netherlands ties and said the airline is working closely with Schiphol Airport to ensure a smooth travel experience.
The leased Norse Atlantic Airways Boeing 787-9 aircraft feature 56 premium IndiGoStretch seats in a seven-abreast layout with 43 inches of seat pitch, alongside 282 economy seats in a nine-abreast configuration offering 31-inch seat pitch. This wide-body configuration marks a significant upgrade from IndiGo’s single-aisle Airbus A320 family fleet.
These long-haul services represent a strategic leap as IndiGo prepares for the delivery of its A321XLRs later in 2025 and Airbus A350s beginning in 2027. The airline aims to redefine its value proposition for international travelers, taking a major step toward establishing itself as a global player in the long-haul market.
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