IndiGo inducts India’s first long range single aisle aircraft, A321XLR

NEW DELHI: IndiGo on Wednesday became the first Indian airline to induct an Airbus A321XLR (extra long range) aircraft in its fleet. Arriving in Delhi, the airline’s first A321XLR will be deployed on the airline’s upcoming non-stop services connecting Mumbai to Athens from Jan 23, 2026, and Delhi to Athens from Jan 24, 2026, operating thrice weekly on both routes.With a range of up to 8,700 km, IndiGo will be able to serve longer international routes from India. The aircraft features a dual-class configuration with 12 stretch and 183 economy class seats. Of a total firm order of 40 A321XLR aircraft, nine are expected to be delivered in CY 2026. After its first international induction to operate non-stop services to Athens, subsequent aircraft will be deployed on existing routes such as Istanbul, Turkey and Denpasar, Bali. Thereafter, incoming deliveries will enable IndiGo to expand to new long-haul routes in Europe and East Asia.

IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said: “IndiGo is honoured to be the first Indian airline to welcome the Airbus A321XLR into its fleet – an important milestone as we prepare to redefine long-haul travel for India. The advanced capabilities of this aircraft enable us to reach newer regions across the globe and further strengthen India’s position as a key player in international aviation. This reinforces our commitment to giving wings to the nation by connecting it to the world.”Jürgen Westermeier, president & MD of Airbus India and South Asia, said: “The arrival of the first A321XLR marks a new milestone in our journey with IndiGo and a proud moment for Indian aviation. We are honoured by the trust IndiGo places in Airbus, and we remain committed to supporting the airline as it continues to give wings to the nation’s aviation aspirations. By opening up mid-to-long-haul routes that were previously unreachable by single-aisle aircraft, this delivery serves as a catalyst for IndiGo’s international growth while significantly enhancing India’s global connectivity. The A321XLR will act as a bridge, linking Indian cities to new destinations across the world and further support India’s ambition to become a global aviation hub.”