GURUGRAM- IndiGo Airlines (6E), India’s largest LCC, strategically expanding its business class offering, IndiGoStretch across metro routes. Responding to positive market reception, the carrier aims to deploy the premium service across 45 aircraft by 2026, compared to its current two-plane configuration.
The airline initiates a systematic rollout of IndiGoStretch, beginning with the critical Delhi-Mumbai route after its August announcement. The phased implementation demonstrates IndiGo’s methodical approach to enhancing its business-class product and meeting customer demand.
IndiGo Business Class on 45 Aircraft
IndiGo plans to deploy 45 IndiGoStretch aircraft within 14 months, targeting 12 routes with over 260 daily flights.
The premium business product offers spacious recliner seating. By January 2025, the service will cover all Delhi–Mumbai flights, expanding to Delhi-Bengaluru and Delhi-Chennai routes by March 2025.
The product will operate on most metro-to-metro routes, with complete route coverage expected by the end of 2025. IndiGo anticipates offering premium capacity on approximately 10% of its fleet.
Currently operating 410 aircraft, the airline projects fleet growth to over 450 aircraft by 2026.
IndiGo’s Strategy against Air India
IndiGo enters the business class market, challenging Air India Group’s dominance. Air India plans 94 business-class aircraft by June 2025, focusing on international routes.
IndiGo’s premium class strategy targets passengers seeking alternative travel experiences. The market currently favors Air India Group following the Vistara merger, which offers business and premium economy seats on key routes.
Air India Express operates business class capacity on “white tail” aircraft, but its long-term premium service remains uncertain. The premium class market has experienced fare increases, which IndiGo strategically leverages.
IndiGo reports a positive initial response to IndiGoStretch. The service launched on 14 November with Delhi-Mumbai flights, now operating 10 daily business-class routes. Ticket pricing starts at ₹18,000, compared to Air India’s ₹21,000 business class fares.
The airline anticipates expanded market awareness and strong demand as it introduces IndiGoStretch across key business routes.
Premium Air Travel Expansion
IndiGo announces business class seats on the Delhi-Bengaluru route starting January 10. The IndiGoStretch product will provide premium passenger experiences on this high-traffic route.
Following its Delhi-Mumbai launch, IndiGoStretch will expand operations. By March 2024, all 15 daily Delhi-Bengaluru flights will feature business class seats. The airline plans to complete the Delhi-Mumbai route rollout by early January 2025.
CEO Pieter Elbers confirms the airline’s plan to serve 12 Indian routes with IndiGoStretch. Delhi-Bengaluru represents the second route, with Delhi-Chennai expected to be announced soon.
IndiGoStretch Business Class Features
Seat Configuration
IndiGoStretch offers 12 seats in a 2×2 layout, designed by Recaro (model R5). Seats provide comfort upgrades without full reclination.
Comfort Specifications
- 38-inch pitch
- 21.3-inch width
- 5-inch recline
- 6-way adjustable headrest
Technology Amenities
- Mobile/tablet holder
- 60W USB-C port
- 3-pin universal power outlet
Traveler Benefits
- Vegetarian meal box
- Soft drinks
- Priority check-in
- Advance seat selection
- Anytime boarding
- 30kg checked baggage (two pieces)
- 12kg hand baggage limit
Limitations
IndiGoStretch lacks lounge access, and footrest, and serves cold meals. Value proposition depends on individual passenger preferences prioritizing convenience over luxury.
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