IndiGo, India’s leading airline, will temporarily halt its Mumbai-Manchester flights starting August 31, 2026. This decision comes in response to ongoing airspace restrictions, which have extended flight times, along with escalating operating costs. These factors, combined with the broader challenges impacting international aviation, such as geopolitical tensions, increased fuel prices, and disruptions in flight routes, have significantly driven up the expenses associated with long-haul operations.
As a result of this suspension, IndiGo plans to return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft it had leased from Norse Atlantic Airways, which were initially acquired in early 2025 to support the airline’s expansion into European markets. This move was intended to precede the arrival of IndiGo’s own Airbus A350 fleet. Despite the setback, the airline emphasized that its other long-haul international routes will continue as scheduled.
The airline’s foray into Europe has been met with strong customer demand, helping to solidify its presence in key international markets. However, the combination of extended flight durations due to airspace limitations, rising aviation turbine fuel costs, and currency fluctuations have made maintaining the Manchester route financially unsustainable. Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management at IndiGo, described the suspension as an unfortunate yet necessary decision given the current operational environment. He expressed optimism about resuming service once conditions improve.
IndiGo is also looking into alternative methods to maintain its partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways, as it continues to pursue its long-term international growth strategy. Passengers affected by the route suspension will receive prior notification and will be offered assistance, including alternative travel arrangements or refunds as applicable.