When did IndiGo Airlines start operating?

Air Travel

By Kristy Tolley

Introduction to IndiGo Airlines

IndiGo Airlines is an Indian low-cost airline that has become one of the most prominent airlines in the country. It was founded in 2005, and since then, it has been providing affordable and comfortable air travel to various parts of the country and beyond. IndiGo Airlines is known for its punctuality, reliability, and excellent customer service.

The Birth of IndiGo Airlines

IndiGo Airlines was founded in 2005 by Rahul Bhatia of InterGlobe Enterprises and Rakesh Gangwal, a former CEO of US Airways. The two entrepreneurs saw the need for a reliable and affordable airline in India that could cater to the growing middle class. They realized that the Indian aviation industry was dominated by full-service airlines, which made air travel expensive for many people. They decided to launch a low-cost airline that would be affordable for the masses.

IndiGo Airlines’ Founders

Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal are the founders of IndiGo Airlines. Rahul Bhatia is a successful businessman who comes from a family of entrepreneurs. He founded InterGlobe Enterprises in 1989, which has interests in various sectors, including aviation, hospitality, and travel. Rakesh Gangwal, on the other hand, is a former CEO of US Airways and a veteran in the aviation industry. He was instrumental in launching IndiGo Airlines and helped shape its business model.

The Beginning of Operation

IndiGo Airlines started its operations on August 4, 2006, with its first flight from Delhi to Imphal. The airline started with a single Airbus A320 aircraft and gradually expanded its fleet as demand for its services grew. It started with domestic operations and later expanded to international destinations.

The First Flight of IndiGo Airlines

The first flight of IndiGo Airlines was from Delhi to Imphal. It was a historic moment for the airline as it marked the beginning of its operations. The flight was well-received by passengers, who appreciated the airline’s punctuality and exceptional service.

The Expansion of IndiGo Airlines

IndiGo Airlines has expanded rapidly over the years and now operates to more than 60 destinations, including domestic and international ones. The airline has a strong presence in India and has also started flights to neighboring countries. It has a fleet of more than 260 aircraft and is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world.

IndiGo Airlines’ Fleet

IndiGo Airlines has a fleet of more than 260 aircraft, which consists of Airbus A320, A320neo, and A321neo planes. The airline has one of the youngest fleets in the world, with an average age of around 6.5 years. The modern and fuel-efficient planes help the airline keep its costs low and provide a comfortable flying experience to passengers.

IndiGo Airlines’ Network

IndiGo Airlines operates to more than 60 destinations, including domestic and international ones. The airline has a strong presence in India and flies to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. It has also started flights to neighboring countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

IndiGo Airlines’ Achievements

IndiGo Airlines has achieved several milestones since its inception. It has been recognized as the Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia and India by Skytrax for several years. It has also been recognized as the Best Airline in India by TripAdvisor. The airline has also received several awards for its excellent customer service and on-time performance.

IndiGo Airlines’ Awards

IndiGo Airlines has won several awards for its exceptional service and performance. Some of the awards it has won include the Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia and India by Skytrax, the Best Airline in India by TripAdvisor, and the Best Low-Cost Carrier award at the World Airline Awards.

IndiGo Airlines’ Future Plans

IndiGo Airlines has ambitious plans for the future. It plans to expand its network further and add more international destinations to its portfolio. The airline also plans to add more aircraft to its fleet and upgrade its existing ones to provide a more comfortable and luxurious flying experience to its passengers.

Conclusion: IndiGo Airlines Today

IndiGo Airlines has come a long way since its inception in 2005. It has become one of the most prominent airlines in India and has set a benchmark for low-cost airlines worldwide. The airline continues to grow and expand its network, and with its focus on customer service and reliability, it is sure to continue to be a favorite among passengers in the years to come.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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