IndiGo expects to receive its first Airbus A350 wide-body aircraft in the second quarter of calendar year 2028, CEO Willie Walsh said on Monday, as the airline seeks to expand its long-haul international operations.




As per Reuters, speaking at his first in-person briefing since taking charge as chief executive in August, Walsh said IndiGo had “incredible opportunities” despite a challenging operating environment for the airline industry.



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“We see incredible opportunities,” he said.




Walsh said IndiGo had the necessary foundations to succeed in the long-haul market. The airline’s plans for the A350 are part of its broader international expansion strategy. He also said the carrier would continue discussions with Boeing in case future opportunities arise.




The airline industry is facing pressure from rising fuel prices, while the depreciation of the rupee has added to costs for Indian carriers. IndiGo reported a net loss of Rs 1,879.1 crore in the September quarter, with higher fuel expenses and the weaker rupee affecting profitability. The airline also reduced capacity during the period.




“Airline industry situation challenging; we will continue to navigate through challenges,” Walsh said. "Airport charges are too high; Indian market will do much better with lower charges, taxes."



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IndiGo has reduced its flights to Saudi Arabia by around 30 flights a day, according to Reuters.




On the Navi Mumbai airport, Walsh said the facility represented a significant opportunity for IndiGo. He added that the airline’s decision to shift some international flights there was taken in the company’s interest.




IndiGo currently operates more than 2,100 flights a day and has an operational fleet of over 400 aircraft. The airline’s use of Boeing 787 aircraft for international expansion offers an indication of how it could deploy the A350s, Walsh said.