IndiGo sees significant growth opportunities despite challenging conditions in the aviation industry, CEO Willie Walsh said on Monday, expressing confidence that the airline would navigate the headwinds while maintaining its focus on a competitive cost base.
Speaking at his first in-person briefing since taking charge in August, Walsh said IndiGo expects to begin receiving its wide-body Airbus A350 aircraft from the second quarter of 2028.
He added that the airline has all the ingredients needed to succeed in the long-haul market.
The airline has all the ingredients to succeed in the long haul market, he said.
The A350s will have a three-class configuration -- 16 flat beds in business class, premium economy and economy class seats.
The configuration is locked for the first 10 A350 planes and the airline would look at having more flat beds in business class later, Walsh said.
Against the backdrop of rising fuel costs roiling profitability of airlines, Walsh said the situation is challenging for the industry and IndiGo will navigate through the challenges.
Regarding hedging for fuel prices, Walsh said there are no plans to start it and would look at the option after finalising the policy.
In the September quarter, IndiGo reported a loss of Rs 1,879.1 crore as higher fuel costs and rupee depreciation roiled the profitability. Amid the headwinds, the airline had also reduced the capacity.
"We see incredible opportunities," he added.
About the Navi Mumbai airport, Walsh said the airport provides a big opportunity for it and that the decision to partly shift international flights was taken in the airline's interest.
IndiGo operates over 2,100 flights daily and currently has an operational fleet of over 400 aircraft.
(With inputs from PTI)