IndiGo to Install Business-Class Seats on Grounded Airbus A321neo, Alongside Engine Change

IndiGo, the largest airline in India is aiming to launch business-class seats on a few busy business routes by the end of this year. Airline executives close to Moneycontrol have shared some insights on which aircraft will get the Business class seats, and how this will help IndiGo to reduce its grounded fleet size.

IndiGo: Business-Class Seats on Grounded Airbus A321neo

Ailing with the ongoing problem in Pratt & Whitney PW1100 series engines, many Airbus A321neos of IndiGo have been on the ground for a long time. According to the Moneycontrol report by Yaruqhullah Khan, the airline is planning an engine change on these aircraft. They will be sent to MRO for engine change. The current P&W engines will be replaced with CFM LEAP-1A engines.

At the same time, these aircraft will be retrofitted in a dual-cabin configuration. A total of 25 aircraft will receive this new cabin. Before the end of 2024, these grounded A321neos will re-enter into service with new CFM engines and a new business-class product.

A senior official told MoneyControl that IndiGo is in discussions with stakeholders to fast-track the installation of these seats. Retrofitting the grounded planes will help the airline save time. Otherwise, more planes would have to be grounded for this process.

Making The Best Use of AOG

According to planespotters.net, IndiGo currently has 13 Airbus A321neos and 58 A320neos on the ground. The majority of these aircraft are victims of P&W engine corrosion. This has resulted in the reduction of the airline’s capacity.

For the Airbus A321neos, there are two engine options. One is the PW1100 series and the other one is CFM LEAP-1A. IndiGo, in the recent past, is taking deliveries of aircraft fitted with CFM engines.

By sending the A321neo fleet for refurbishment, the airline will ensure that it returns to service and will also get them fitted with the new cabin. It is the best example of how to use a disaster for an opportunity. With a single bow, the airline is hitting on two points. It will be a win-win situation in any case.

Business-Class Seats Launch

In the recently concluded earnings call, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers confirmed the airline’s intentions to launch the business class cabin. The airline will launch the product on some busy business routes across India by the end of this year.

According to a report from CNBC-TV18, the airline is looking to launch the business class product on routes from Delhi to Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Internationally, it may launch the new cabin on routes connecting Delhi to Dubai, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi.

IndiGo will be revealing more details about its business-class product in August. During its anniversary celebration, the airline will showcase the exact product. With time, it will introduce new ways to enhance its onboard product. It has partnered with AirFi to provide portable IFE service on the Delhi to Goa route. It is also expected to bring ovens onboard to serve hot meals.

Conclusion: IndiGo Business-Class Seats on A321neos

IndiGo is looking to hit two goals with a single arrow. It is looking to turn a disaster into an opportunity. It is looking to refit the grounded A321neo fleet with new engines and new business-class products. Around 25 aircraft will receive the new product.

What do you think about this move from IndiGo? Discuss in the comment section.