IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has decided to temporarily suspend its Mumbai-Manchester route starting August 31, 2026. This move is attributed to extended airspace restrictions, increased flight durations, and the escalating costs of operations. The airline cites ongoing global aviation challenges, including geopolitical tensions, rising fuel prices, and disruptions in flight routes that have significantly driven up the cost of operating long-haul flights as reasons for this decision.
In line with this suspension, IndiGo will return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft it leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. These aircraft were part of the airline’s strategy to penetrate European markets in early 2025, ahead of receiving its own Airbus A350 fleet. Despite the suspension, IndiGo assures that its other long-haul international services will continue as planned.
IndiGo’s foray into Europe has been met with strong customer demand, enhancing its foothold in crucial international markets. However, the combination of longer flight times due to airspace limitations, rising aviation turbine fuel costs, and foreign exchange volatility has rendered the Manchester route financially unsustainable. Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management, Abhijit Dasgupta, expressed that the decision, although regrettable, was necessary given the current operating climate. He emphasized the positive customer response to the service and affirmed the airline’s intention to restart the route when conditions permit.
The airline is also investigating other avenues to maintain its partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways while pursuing its broader international expansion goals. Passengers impacted by the route suspension will be informed ahead of time and offered support, including alternative travel options or refunds as appropriate.