IndiGo and Air India’s chief executives have outlined long-term growth strategies for the airline industry in India, despite current challenges such as higher fuel prices and airspace restrictions. IndiGo plans to shift its long-haul operations to Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which will allow it to operate longer routes with greater efficiency.

IndiGo expects to operate around 600 aircraft by 2030 and has already announced codeshares with 13 airlines. The airline is also flying to Amsterdam on a flight of just over ten hours, showcasing its growing international ambitions. IndiGo holds about 65% of the domestic market and emphasizes the need for self-reliance in aircraft maintenance.

Air India CEO Tewolde Gebremariam said the airline faces short-term losses but has a clear route to growth. Air India is shifting capacity toward eastern and southeastern markets due to airspace closures, and it has resumed non-stop flights to New York and Newark via Iraqi airspace.

The airline is also integrating its operations with Air India Express and plans to establish an MRO facility in Bengaluru by 2027.

Air India and Air India Express have extended flight cancellations to Saudi Arabian cities until November 14, along with IndiGo and Akasa Air. This comes amid ongoing disruptions linked to security concerns in the region.