Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo took another step forward towards its hybridization with the arrival of the first aircraft fitted with its new IndiGoStretch product.
IndiGoStretch is a, much anticipated, business class-like product that will be deployed on some of the airlines trunk domestic routes in India with a large number of business travelers, such as those linking the capital city, Delhi (DEL), to Mumbai (BOM), Chennai (MAA) and Bengaluru (BLR).
The new premium section is located at the front of the aircraft and features RECARO premium seats laid out in a two-two configuration, as opposed to the three abreast in the rest of the cabin, each with 38 inches of pitch, a generous recline and adjustable headrests. These seats also feature wider armrests fitted with electronic device holders and 60-watt USB-Type C in-seat power sockets.
In addition to the “hard” element of the product, IndiGoStretch passengers will enjoy a number of additional services akin to those of a traditional business class. These include premium meal options developed by Oberoi Flight Services, the catering arm of the Indian luxury hospitality group, as well as priority check-in, advance seat selection and a 30kg check-in baggage allowance.
The first aircraft fitted with IndiGoStretch, an Airbus A321neo aircraft with registration VT-ICF, completed its delivery flight from Hamburg-Finkenwerder (XFW) to Delhi on October 30, 2024, and will start operating on November 14, 2024, on the Delhi-Mumbai route.
Within the next 18 months, IndiGo expects to induct 45 A320-family aircraft fitted with the IndiGoStretch product into service.