IndiGo has announced the temporary suspension of its flight operations to and from Manchester with effect from August 31, 2026, citing continuing international airspace constraints, increased flight durations and a challenging operating cost environment.
As part of the decision, the airline also plans to return one of the six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft currently operated under a damp/wet lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways.
According to IndiGo, the remaining long-haul operations will continue as planned.
The airline had inducted six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from Norse Atlantic Airways in early 2025 as part of its strategy to establish a stronger presence in the European market ahead of the introduction of its own Airbus A350 aircraft.
However, the carrier stated that several industry-wide challenges, including geopolitical developments in the Middle East, rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, severe airspace restrictions and foreign exchange volatility, have significantly increased operational costs beyond initial expectations.
Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President – Network Planning & Revenue Management, IndiGo, said, “We inducted these wide-body aircraft on a short-term basis to fast-track our connectivity to high-potential long-haul destinations such as Manchester, and witnessed very encouraging demand response. It is, therefore, unfortunate that longer flying times due to airspace constraints coupled with dramatically escalating costs compelled us to take the decision to temporarily discontinue our India – Manchester services.”
Dasgupta also thanked customers, travel trade partners and Manchester Airport for their support and noted that the airline remains committed to its long-haul growth plans. “The response and support for these services have reinforced our belief in the opportunity for IndiGo’s long-haul ambitions, and this discontinuation is temporary in nature. We look forward to serving this route again at the earliest viable opportunity and are exploring innovative solutions to continue our collaboration with Norse Atlantic Airways,” he added.
IndiGo stated that affected passengers will be informed in advance and provided with alternate travel options or refunds, wherever applicable.
