IndiGo, the top airline in India, is setting new standards for domestic travel with its move into premium services. Known for economical fares, it now offers IndiGoStretch, a modern business class experience. This bold step directly challenges Air India’s stronghold in the market while raising the bar for comfort and convenience in Indian aviation. By 2026, IndiGo plans to deploy 45 IndiGoStretch aircraft, aligning with the rising demand for premium travel on domestic routes.
What is IndiGoStretch?
IndiGoStretch brings a premium touch to the skies, offering 45 aircraft with business class cabins that combine comfort with practicality. It is currently being rolled out across metro routes, starting with the high-traffic Delhi-Mumbai sector. By early 2025, all flights on this route will feature IndiGoStretch seating. This phased expansion aims to deploy 45 IndiGoStretch aircraft across 12 key routes and operate over 260 daily flights by the end of 2025.
Key features include:
- Recliner Seats: Spacious 2×2 layout with a 38-inch pitch and 5-inch recline.
- Tech Perks: USB-C ports, universal power outlets, and mobile holders.
- Added Comfort: Priority check-in, 30kg baggage allowance, and vegetarian meal boxes.
While IndiGoStretch skips luxuries like hot meals, lounge access, and footrests, it focuses on what matters most by providing efficiency, convenience, and comfort during short domestic trips.
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IndiGoStretch Expands Premium Services Across Metro Routes
IndiGo’s foray into the business class market takes direct aim at Air India, which dominates the segment following its merger with Vistara. With plans to roll out 45 aircraft featuring IndiGoStretch by 2026, the airline offers fares starting at Rs 18,000 lower than Air India’s Rs 21,000. This strategy is tailored to attract frequent flyers and corporate travelers seeking affordable premium services without sacrificing quality.
The introduction of 45 IndiGoStretch planes by 2026 will see premium capacity on 10% of IndiGo’s fleet. Currently, the airline operates 410 aircraft, a number expected to surpass 450 by 2026.
Feedback from the Skies
The initial response to IndiGoStretch has been overwhelmingly positive, driven by encouraging forward booking trends. With plans to introduce 45 IndiGoStretch aircraft by 2026, IndiGo is set to significantly enhance its premium offerings. Despite aviation experts like Ajay Prakash pointing out the absence of a footrest as a limitation, IndiGo’s focus on metro-to-metro routes ensures extensive coverage across India’s busiest travel corridors, appealing to business travelers.
Air India’s White Tail Strategy vs. IndiGoStretch Rollout
As IndiGo scales up its premium offerings with plans to introduce 45 IndiGoStretch aircraft by 2026, Air India is taking steps to safeguard its market share. Air India Express continues to operate some business class capacity on “white tail” aircraft, but its long-term premium plans remain uncertain. Meanwhile, IndiGoStretch’s phased rollout ensures a methodical approach to meeting customer demand and boosting market awareness.
FAQs
What is IndiGoStretch?
IndiGoStretch is IndiGo’s premium business class service, offering spacious recliner seats, priority check-in, and enhanced comfort on domestic routes.
How many IndiGoStretch aircraft will IndiGo have?
IndiGo plans to roll out 45 IndiGoStretch aircraft by 2026, covering key metro routes in India.
When will IndiGoStretch be available on all Delhi-Mumbai flights?
IndiGoStretch will be available on all Delhi-Mumbai flights by January 2025.
Which routes will feature IndiGoStretch?
IndiGoStretch will initially operate on metro routes like Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Bengaluru, and Delhi-Chennai, with plans to expand to 12 key routes.
What are the features of IndiGoStretch business class?
IndiGoStretch offers recliner seats with a 38-inch pitch, USB-C ports, 30kg baggage allowance, priority boarding, and meal boxes.
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