IndiGo plans premium class makeover to Woo Business Flyers

IndiGo, India's largest airline, is considering a departure from its one-size-fits-all approach by introducing a premium class on its Airbus A321 aircraft. The plan, set to be implemented by the end of the next year, involves configuring 35 aircraft with a dual-class setup. The premium cabin will feature four rows of spacious seats, accommodating two on each side and providing 36 inches of legroom. IndiGo aims to attract more business travellers and compete with Air India on international routes through this strategic move. Currently, IndiGo's seat pitch averages 30 inches on its Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, employing a no-frills model that prioritizes cost efficiency and extra charges for amenities. However, with a dominant position in India's domestic market, the airline's leadership, including CEO Pieter Elbers, believes it's time to leverage this strength to become a leader in the international market. Passengers opting for the premium seats will enjoy benefits such as priority boarding, complimentary in-flight meals, and increased flexibility in changing their travel plans. The airline has not disclosed the additional cost for these premium seats. IndiGo's CEO, Elbers, who assumed the position in 2021, is driving the airline's international expansion, aided by directors like Greg Sarestky, known for transforming Canada's WestJet into a hybrid airline. The introduction of Airbus A321 XLR aircraft from 2025 will further enable IndiGo to fly longer routes, particularly to European markets with over seven hours of flying time. These planes will feature business class seats and enhanced legroom in the economy section. While the move to introduce a premium section aims to attract high-yielding customers lost to competitors like Air India and Vistara, some investors and industry experts caution against overestimating the demand for premium traffic. Maintaining IndiGo's superior low-cost model will be crucial to avoid potential pitfalls associated with hybridization. Aviation consultancy firm CAPA has issued a warning, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in balancing premium offerings with the airline's successful cost-effective approach.