Willie Walsh has expressed interest in helping IndiGo expand its long-haul route network using the A350-900 aircraft, which are capable of flying over 15,750 miles. This expansion is expected to begin in 2028 and could mark a significant shift for IndiGo from being primarily a low-cost carrier to a full-service airline.

IndiGo plans to add up to 60 A350-900 aircraft to its fleet, with the first 10 configured to include 16 lie-flat business-class seats. The airline has already ordered 30 of these aircraft in 2024 and another 30 in 2025. This move follows IndiGo’s previous use of damp-leased Boeing 787s for long-haul flights to the UK.

The A350-900 is expected to allow IndiGo to operate flights anywhere in the world, and the airline has already expanded its international network significantly. From 5 destinations and 12 routes in FY16, IndiGo now operates flights to 44 destinations and over 150 routes in FY26.

The airline also plans to grow its fleet to over 550 aircraft by 2030.