Change Me
No more low cost: With these new offerings, it’s clear that IndiGo is committed to achieving luxury with a minimal budget.
Peden Dom Bhutia
Indian carrier IndiGo announced on Monday that it will launch a business class service for the popular Delhi-Mumbai route. The new luxury suite should open in mid-November.
The airline also launched its much-awaited loyalty program, the IndiGo BluChip, demonstrating its progress as a dominant player in the global airline industry.
In a recent interview with Skift, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said, “It’s clear that the loyalty program is something that should be part of our infrastructure, we will reveal more when we have something tangible.” publicly.”
IndiGo’s decision to introduce business class services is in line with its priorities. The airline’s vision taps into the growing needs of India’s rapidly changing economy and its changing consumer expectations. Elbers highlighted the importance of this step, saying, “IndiGo is embarking on a new path in its incredible growth story by introducing a business product that is uniquely designed for the country’s busiest roads.”
What is IndiGoStretch?
The new business class service, called ‘IndiGoStretch,’ will be characterized by a coupe style, with two wide seats.
The pilot project involves gradually expanding IndiGoStretch to cover more metro-to-metro routes, with 12 routes expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
Regarding the business class product, Elbers previously told Skift that the airline will remain true to the IndiGo brand and that the time is right for a “product like IndiGo” to help the new wave of air travelers. India.
With 12 seats arranged in a 2-2 configuration, the IndiGoStretch aims to attract both experienced business travelers and first-time flyers who want a better travel experience, the airline said. Each seat will have a maximum pitch of 38 inches and a width of 21.3 inches, complemented by a six-way adjustable headrest for neck support and a 5-inch deep seat for more leisure.
Modern amenities, including an electronics holder, a 60-watt Type-C power supply, and a three-pin power outlet, should meet the requirements. of business travelers.
A departure from their traditional no-frills service, IndiGoStretch customers will enjoy amenities, including a boxed lunch from Oberoi Catering Services, a no-cost policy, check-in advance, and advance seat selection at no extra charge.
The airline plans to officially start ticket sales on Tuesday, offering an introductory fare of INR 18,018 ($215) for the Delhi-Mumbai sector.
The launch of the IndiGo BluChip Loyalty Program
The IndiGo BluChip Loyalty Program is designed to reward frequent flyers and encourage customer loyalty, the airline said in a release. Members will earn rewards based on their use of each flight, providing an enhanced travel experience and exclusive benefits.
“About 10 years ago, the Indian market was probably not ready for the loyalty system, but today it is ready, and that made us evaluate our position,” Elbers said in comments. earlier on Skift.
The airline emphasized that the BluChips earned will not expire for active members, ensuring a long-term commitment to reward customer loyalty.
Members will also receive additional BluChips when booking directly through IndiGo’s website or mobile app, enhancing direct interaction with the airline.
Early registration for the BluChip program opened on Monday, and the official announcement is scheduled for September 2024.
IndiGo’s Growing Role in Global Aviation
Since taking the helm at IndiGo in 2022, Elbers has been talking about the airline’s ambitions for international growth.
Airbus XLR (Xtra Long Range) will join its fleet next year, allowing the aircraft to reach Southern Europe and Asia. Airbus 350-900 will follow to expand its range.
In its latest earnings call, the airline also said it is looking to introduce in-flight entertainment.
IndiGo’s fleet, as of June 30, includes 382 aircraft, 14 leased and 18 wet leased. Pending regulatory approvals, the airline plans to add six more Qatar Airways flights for the Doha route with wet or wet charters in the future.
To meet growing demand, the airline also said it will expand its international supply to Central Asia. From mid-August, IndiGo will fly daily to Tashkent, Almaty and Tbilisi. The airline plans to add more destinations and frequencies in the future.
IndiGo has also introduced a hotel booking option on its website and app to allow passengers a “one-step solution.”
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