IndiGo Cuts UK, Europe Flights to Stabilize Boeing 787-9 Schedule Amid Airspace Curbs

IndiGo, India's largest airline, has announced significant adjustments to its long-haul network. The carrier is cutting services to the United Kingdom and Europe. This move aims to restore schedule reliability for its wide-body operations. External operational constraints, including geopolitical developments, are cited as the main cause.

Network Adjustments for Operational Stability

IndiGo's wide-body operations, which use six Boeing 787-9 aircraft, have faced continuous challenges. These challenges stem from constantly changing airspace restrictions and congestion at major airports. Restrictions, particularly over areas like Pakistani and Iranian airspace, force longer flight paths. These detours increase flight and block times, stressing the airline's long-haul schedule.

IndiGo is operating the Dreamliners through a damp-lease arrangement with Norse Atlantic Airways. This arrangement began in March 2025 as a transitional step. It precedes the planned induction of the airline's own Airbus A350-900 aircraft from early 2028.

To improve on-time performance and minimize cascading delays, IndiGo is making selective cuts.

Key Service Reductions and Suspensions

• Copenhagen: Operations to and from Copenhagen will be suspended starting February 17, 2026, until further notice.
• Delhi-Manchester: Services will be reduced from five weekly flights to four on February 7, 2026.
• Delhi-Manchester: The frequency will be further cut to three weekly flights starting February 19.
• Delhi-London Heathrow: Services will drop from five flights per week to four, effective February 9, 2026.

This reduction in Delhi-Manchester flight frequency will lower the total connectivity to and from Manchester from nine to seven weekly services. IndiGo noted that this scale adjustment was originally planned for the Summer Schedule 2026. However, it was advanced to ensure operational stability across the long-haul network.

Impact on Indian Aviation and Passengers

Geopolitical tensions have a direct impact on the commercial aviation sector. For Indian carriers, avoiding certain airspaces means longer routes, higher fuel burn, and increased operational costs. This puts significant pressure on the limited fleet of six wide-body aircraft used for the IndiGo long-haul network adjustments.

The airline is proactively contacting affected customers. They are offering alternative flight options, refunds, or compensation per applicable regulations. IndiGo expressed regret that prevailing circumstances affected the operational reliability on its 787-9 routes.

The decision highlights the challenges of international expansion for Indian carriers. It underscores the need to manage external geopolitical risks in long-haul flight planning. IndiGo aims to reduce disruption to connecting itineraries booked by its customers. It will continue to monitor external developments and scale its international network flexibly.

This strategic pause is intended to solidify the foundation for future long-haul growth. The ultimate goal is a successful transition to the larger, owned A350-900 fleet. IndiGo's long-term plan is to establish itself as a major global aviation player by 2030.

• Key Aviation Entities: IndiGo, Boeing, Norse Atlantic Airways, London Heathrow, Manchester Airport, Copenhagen Airport.
• Regulatory Context: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India monitors such schedule changes.
• Industry Trend: Other global airlines have also faced similar challenges due to geopolitical airspace restrictions in the Middle East and Central Asia.

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