India’s largest airline, IndiGo, will temporarily halt its Mumbai-Manchester route starting August 31, 2026. The decision comes as a result of enduring airspace restrictions, longer flight durations, and escalating operational costs. The airline cites ongoing challenges in international aviation, such as geopolitical tensions, rising fuel prices, and route disruptions, which have driven up the expense of operating long-haul flights.
In conjunction with the suspension, IndiGo plans to return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. These aircraft were initially acquired in early 2025 to bolster the airline’s expansion into European markets, pending the arrival of its own Airbus A350 fleet. The airline emphasizes that the suspension is temporary and will not impact its other long-haul international services, which remain on schedule.
Despite the challenges, IndiGo’s foray into Europe has been met with robust customer demand, solidifying the airline’s footprint in crucial international markets. However, the combination of extended flight times due to airspace limitations, rising aviation turbine fuel costs, and foreign exchange volatility has rendered the Manchester route financially unsustainable. Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management, referred to the decision as unfortunate yet necessary given the current conditions. He highlighted the positive customer response and reiterated the airline’s commitment to resuming the service once circumstances improve.
IndiGo also announced that it is exploring alternative avenues to continue its partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways while pursuing its long-term international growth objectives. Passengers affected by the suspension will receive advance notification and assistance, including alternative travel arrangements or refunds as applicable.