IndiGo is strategically positioning itself for growth in the international aviation sector by expanding its long-haul flight offerings and enhancing partnerships with foreign carriers. However, the airline is steering clear of joining any formal airline alliance at this point in time. Instead, IndiGo's focus remains on strengthening its current codeshare agreements and building new collaborations with international airlines, according to the airline's CEO, Pieter Elbers.

Focus on Partnerships Over Alliances

In an interview with PTI on Tuesday, Elbers explained that IndiGo's approach involves collaborating with a diverse range of international partners, many of whom are members of prominent global alliances like SkyTeam and Star Alliance. However, he stressed that the alliance affiliations of its partners aren't a primary concern for IndiGo. "Some of the partners are of SkyTeam, some are of Star Alliance, that is not so relevant for us. These partnerships have different roles and functions in the network," Elbers said. The airline's strategy, therefore, is to expand these partnerships, increase codeshare agreements, and introduce more reciprocal codeshares, rather than pursuing membership in an airline alliance.

IndiGo’s Codeshare Agreements

Currently, IndiGo has codeshare partnerships with nine global airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, American Airlines, Air France, KLM, Qantas Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Malaysia Airlines, and British Airways. These agreements allow passengers to book flights through IndiGo while traveling with partner airlines, using a single ticket. In addition, IndiGo has an interline agreement with JetStar, which offers passengers a coordinated itinerary across multiple airlines, though with separate tickets for each leg of the journey.

The codeshare partnership model allows IndiGo to extend its global reach by collaborating with international airlines without committing to a full-scale airline alliance. This gives passengers access to a wider network of destinations while providing IndiGo flexibility in its expansion strategy.

Long-Haul Flight Expansion Plans

IndiGo has bold plans to expand its long-haul routes, beginning with non-stop flights to Manchester and Amsterdam in July 2025. These routes will be served by leased Boeing 787-9 aircraft, a significant step in the airline’s efforts to broaden its international network. IndiGo is also looking into further European markets for additional long-haul expansions. This is part of the airline’s broader strategy to tap into more global destinations and increase its footprint in international markets.

Fleet Expansion and Cost Sensitivity

IndiGo’s fleet continues to grow rapidly, with over 400 aircraft currently in operation and an additional 925 aircraft on order. The airline’s impressive growth trajectory is underscored by its strategic moves to cater to both domestic and international demand. However, despite the growth, Pieter Elbers emphasized the importance of maintaining cost-effective operations, especially in a market like India, which is known for being highly price-sensitive.

When asked about the variable tariff proposals by the Delhi airport operator DIAL, Elbers acknowledged that discussions are ongoing, but underscored that keeping costs under control is essential. "Given that it is a cost-competitive and price-sensitive market, effective cost levels are important," he said, highlighting the competitive nature of the Indian aviation industry.

IndiGo is continuing its expansion in both the domestic and international sectors while strategically focusing on partnerships rather than formal alliances. With plans for new long-haul routes, growing fleet size, and ongoing partnerships with major international airlines, the airline aims to strengthen its position in the competitive aviation market. By prioritizing codeshare agreements and cost-effective operations, IndiGo looks set to continue its upward trajectory in the global aviation industry.