The new budget airline operating in India took off from Mumbai today and headed for Manchester on a 10-hour journey. Indigo's flight 6E0031 will occur today at 4:25am local time and will land around 10am Manchester time. After landing in the UK, we will land at 1:55am local time and begin our return trip. The new flight route marks the first direct trip available to passengers between Indian City and northern England.
The airline, called “Ryanair of India” by Telegraph, has been in operation since 2006, but has just begun its first India-to-UK route. The new route uses Nordic Atlantic Airlines' Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Manchester flights operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The airline, which aimed to become a “global player” of aviation, has also launched a route from Mumbai to Amsterdam.
Fares for Mumbai and Manchester start at around £426 for economic return trips. Those booking for Indigo business class will consider paying more than £800 for their return trip.
“We are on our path to becoming a global aviation player. We offer very competitive fares,” said Indigo boss Pieter Elbers.
“Indigo's long-distance forays will be a pivotal moment in our global expansion journey,” he said in a press release. “We are extremely proud and excited to launch our first long-distance service that will link Mumbai with Manchester and in many ways a very special route. We are celebrating India and its unique cuisine. We are excited to announce that a specially made free hot meals and drinks will be offered to all customers on this route by the iconic homemade Indian brand.”
Elbers hopes to boost tourism between the UK and India with this new flight route.
“The new route provides a seamless connection that benefits travel from Manchester to Mumbai with most of the 90+ Indian destinations on Indigo's domestic network. This service from Indigo further enhances connectivity between India and the UK and promotes stronger economic, educational and cultural ties beyond supporting the growing Indian diaspora. Unlocks new roads for professionals and leisure travelers, as well as bilateral trade and cooperation between the two countries.”
The planes used for these flights have 282 economy seats and 56 indigo stretch seats, a premium economy product from the airline. All passengers will be provided with free meals on board.
Plus, one check bag is included in all fares. “This route will make it the only Northern airport that will directly connect with India and secure its position as one of Europe's most connected airports,” said Chris Woodroof, Manchester Airport's managing director.
“It will link the region to the world's fastest growing economy and open up even stronger trade and investment opportunities, connecting it to the Indian heritage and family and friends, with half a million people living in the Manchester airport catchment.
