India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is taking a bold step towards long-haul expansion, setting its sights on Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. With plans to launch direct flights from Mumbai and Delhi, the airline aims to break the dominance of Air India and KLM on these key routes. This move is not just about connectivity—it is about reshaping international air travel competition and creating more choices for Indian travellers.
Breaking the Duopoly: IndiGo’s European Strategy
For years, the India-Amsterdam corridor has been dominated by Air India and KLM, leveraging strong alliances and well-established networks. Now, IndiGo is applying for daily slots at Schiphol, signalling an aggressive push into the European market.
The airline’s entrance into this space will likely introduce affordable fares and increased flexibility, challenging the premium pricing models of legacy carriers. More competition in the market will drive innovation, better services, and increased passenger volumes.
The Norse Atlantic Wet-Lease: A Smart Interim Solution
IndiGo is not waiting for its Airbus A350-900s, which are scheduled for delivery in 2027. Instead, it is fast-tracking its European entry with six Boeing 787-9 aircraft, wet-leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. This strategy allows IndiGo to begin long-haul operations as early as 2025, covering major routes like Amsterdam, London, and Paris.
In an earnings call, CEO Peter Elbers confirmed:
“Subject to regulatory approvals, we are exploring interim solutions for the earlier introduction of long-range aircraft to our fleet through wet leases. Route and network opportunities are being explored at present, and we will communicate as and when they are finalised.”
This leasing approach mitigates risks while enabling IndiGo to gauge demand before committing to further expansion. Initially, the aircraft may operate on Bangkok and Singapore routes before being deployed to Europe.
The Competitive Landscape: Disrupting KLM and Air India
While IndiGo’s entry will shake up the market, KLM and Air India are unlikely to retreat without a fight. KLM, part of the Air France-KLM Group, holds strong European connectivity and benefits from SkyTeam alliance support. Meanwhile, Air India, now under Tata Group ownership, is rapidly expanding its fleet and revamping its long-haul services to strengthen its position.
With nearly 697,000 domestic flights planned for 2025, IndiGo dominates the Indian market far beyond Air India’s 185,000 flights. This extensive feeder network gives IndiGo a powerful advantage in attracting connecting traffic from secondary cities across India to its European flights.
Amsterdam-Bound: A Market Ready for Change
The demand for India-Netherlands travel is strong and growing. According to OAG data, the Amsterdam-Delhi route saw approximately 117,000 two-way passengers in the past 12 months, while Mumbai-Amsterdam had around 70,000. IndiGo’s competitive fares and efficient operational model could significantly expand this market.
Furthermore, beyond Mumbai and Delhi, there is substantial demand for Amsterdam connections from Colombo, Bengaluru, Chennai, Male, and Hyderabad. IndiGo’s ability to funnel passengers from these secondary hubs could challenge the near-monopoly KLM currently enjoys on India-Netherlands routes.
The Broader Impact: European Airlines on Alert
IndiGo’s expansion is not just a challenge to Air India—it is a wake-up call for European airlines. With Russian airspace restrictions forcing longer routes to Asia, India has become a key gateway for European carriers. The increased competition from IndiGo could pressure pricing models and disrupt existing partnerships.
For the 12 months ending December 2025, European airlines are expected to operate over 12,300 flights between India and Europe, making up the bulk of the nearly 20,000 scheduled flights. IndiGo’s entry into this market will reshape the competitive landscape, offering a low-cost alternative to passengers and businesses alike.
What This Means for Air India
While European airlines may struggle with IndiGo’s arrival, Air India is better positioned to defend its market share. The carrier has 6,300 India-Europe flights planned for 2025 and benefits from its merger with Vistara, enhancing its long-haul strategy. Additionally, Air India’s recent order for 85 Airbus A320s and A350s signals a clear intent to expand and modernise.
However, with IndiGo’s vast domestic network, cost efficiency, and now European ambitions, Air India will face significant pressure to maintain its dominance in both economy and premium travel segments.
The Future of India-Europe Travel
IndiGo’s Amsterdam expansion is more than just a route launch—it is a strategic play that could permanently shift the India-Europe aviation landscape. With an extensive domestic network, a low-cost operational model, and a clear long-haul strategy, the airline is poised to undercut traditional carriers while bringing new levels of affordability and accessibility to Indian travellers.
As IndiGo cements its European presence, legacy airlines will be forced to adapt or lose ground. Whether that means lower fares, improved services, or new strategic alliances, one thing is certain—IndiGo’s arrival on the long-haul scene is set to reshape international air travel as we know it.
