IndiGo has formed a global partnership Delta Air Lines, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic to connect India with Europe and North America.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) also creates a framework for deeper collaboration between the carriers on a bilateral and multilateral basis, as well as contemplating commercial collaboration through network, loyalty, cargo, and sales. The partnership will also look at non-commercial cooperation such as maintenance, sustainability, training, ground handling, and technological advancements.
“IndiGo has embarked on an ambitious journey to become a global airline by 2030,” said IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers. “This partnership represents an important milestone to pursue commercial synergies, operational excellence and innovation. This announcement not only expands our relationship with Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic but also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we welcome Delta Air Lines as a valued partner.”
IndiGo said the partnership will combine the strengths of its partner airlines' networks with its own Indian network — a quickly developing market for aviation.
“This agreement if another example of our commitment to making travel more connected, more inclusive and more accessible,” said Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian. “Combining our strengths with those of IndiGo, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic, will enable us to offer unparalleled connectivity and convenience, ensuring that our customers enjoy the highest standards of service and reliability across the globe.”
Air France-KLM CEO Benjamin Smith said: “India is a strategic market for Air France-KLM, where we have a strong and historic presence soon to increase.”
“As IndiGo starts long haul operations, we'll connect four of the world's largest economies, enhancing the travel experiences for our guests,” commented Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss.
IndiGo has had partnerships with Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic since 2022.
The Indian airline has also reportedly had its request to extend its wet lease of two 777-300ER jets from Turkish Airlines by six months, according to local media. It comes amid geopolitical tensions between Turkey and India. However, the government has allowed a three-month final extension, according to reports, to avoid any immediate disruption to the airline's operations. The three month extension was given a day before the lease period was set to expire.
With the extension, the leases for the two 777-300ER aircraft have been extended until August 31, 2025. The aircraft operated daily routes between Delhi, Mumbai, and Istanbul.