DELHI- India’s largest carrier, IndiGo Airlines (6E), appears to be eyeing Scandinavia as a potential European country. The airline has recently applied for slots at Copenhagen Airport (CPH).
This development was first reported by ‘The Indian Aviation Guy‘ on Twitter, citing official slot filing data from the airport’s website. If the flights are launched, it will mark IndiGo’s entry into Denmark and potentially its first direct service to the Nordic region.
IndiGo Copenhagen Flights
IndiGo Airlines appears to be planning a non-stop flight between Delhi and Copenhagen. As per the slot filing, IndiGo has requested arrival into Copenhagen at 08:00 hours and departure at 10:00 hours.
The further details on the aircraft type and operational schedule remain undisclosed. The timings suggest an efficient turnaround plan, aligning with IndiGo’s usual quick turnaround strategy.
The move aligns with IndiGo’s ongoing international expansion efforts. The airline is planning to introduce long-haul flights to Europe with new direct routes. The airline already serves multiple European destinations through codeshare agreements.
Additionally, the type of aircraft the airline plans to deploy on the route is not known yet. The airline could potentially operate the flights using the Boeing 787-9, which it is receiving on wet lease from Norse. However, with the Airbus A321XLR set to join IndiGo’s fleet later this year, Copenhagen might also be a viable destination for the XLRs as well.
Why Copenhagen?
Copenhagen is one of the busiest airports in Scandinavia and serves as a key gateway to Northern Europe. Air India currently operates a direct route from Delhi, India to Copenhagen, Denmark. This has strengthened trade, tourism, and business connectivity between the two nations.
Air India is seemingly doing well on the route as well. The airline increased the frequency of flights on the route in 2024. However, the present 4x weekly flights cannot suffice the demand between the two nations.
Denmark has also been increasingly investing in India, and more flight options could further support economic relations. Moreover, Copenhagen Airport is a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), providing potential for onward connectivity within Europe.
Growing India-Europe Connectivity
Air India has recently announced a significant expansion to Europe. The India-Europe travel demand has always been increasing. Additionally, European carriers have been increasing their presence in India. Lufthansa operates the largest passenger airplane in the world, the Airbus A380-800 between Munich and Delhi.
Now, IndiGo has seen aggressively planning potential expansion to Europe in recent years. The airline already serves Istanbul and has codeshare agreements with several European carriers, allowing seamless connectivity beyond its direct network.
What’s Next?
While slot applications do not guarantee route launches, they are a strong indication of an airline’s intent. If IndiGo receives approval and proceeds with the route, official announcements regarding ticket sales, frequency, and launch dates are expected in the coming months.
Additionally, regulatory approvals and aircraft availability will play a crucial role in determining when and how the route is launched.
Over the past few months, IndiGo has applied for slots at various European airports. The airline initially showed intentions to fly to London-Gatwick (LGW), regarding which there is no further information. IndiGo, however, has applied for slots at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, and Manchester Airport.
IndiGo’s potential entry into Copenhagen signals a growing demand for direct flights between India and Scandinavia. With increasing business ties, tourism, and a strong Indian diaspora in Europe, a direct route to Denmark could be a strategic move for the airline. Travelers and aviation enthusiasts will be eagerly waiting for IndiGo’s official confirmation in the near future.
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