IndiGo Business Class: A New Contender in India’s Airline Industry
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/5th August 2024
India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is set to elevate its service with the introduction of business class on select routes by the end of the year. Announced in May, this move marks a significant shift from IndiGo’s traditional low-cost carrier (LCC) model to a hybrid approach, showcasing its growth as it celebrates 18 years in the aviation industry.
The new business class will feature 12 seats per aircraft in the A321neo fleet, which currently seats between 222 and 232 passengers. To accommodate this, the economy class will be reduced to 208 seats. The rollout of these business class seats will take place before the year concludes, similar to Air India’s introduction of three-class service on selected routes. IndiGo’s new offering will replace existing flights as needed.
IndiGo’s business class seats, provided by Recaro, include several innovative features. The R5 seat design incorporates ample storage and a two-part tray table that remains accessible even when the passenger stands, allowing for convenience and uninterrupted use of personal devices. Additionally, these seats will come with charging capabilities, a first for IndiGo, and a 38-inch seat pitch, enhancing comfort for travelers.
The launch of IndiGo’s business class is timely, given the competitive landscape in India’s aviation sector. Air India, now a part of the larger Air India group following its merger with Vistara, offers a robust business class with seats from Rockwell Collins. These seats feature 40-inch pitch, significant recline, and include various amenities such as leg rests, footrests, and USB charging ports. Vistara’s business class seats are similarly equipped and found on its A320neo aircraft, which provide additional comfort and functionality.
In contrast, Vistara’s A321neo models offer lie-flat seats from Collins Aerospace, boasting a generous 63-inch pitch and extensive in-flight entertainment options. This positions Vistara’s business class as a luxurious choice, featuring fully reclining beds, large monitors, and a wide array of amenities.
Other players in the market include Air India Express and Akasa Air, both offering business class seats on some routes. Air India Express, utilizing ex-Jet Airways aircraft, has transitioned its front cabin from enhanced economy to a full business class offering. Akasa Air, with its mix of refurbished and existing aircraft, continues to offer premium seating under its Economy A++ branding.
While IndiGo’s business class is set to make its mark, it faces challenges. Compared to Air India, IndiGo’s offering will have a smaller recline and seat pitch. A notable gap is the absence of ovens for preparing hot meals, a feature that could impact passenger experience, particularly as food preferences evolve.
As IndiGo prepares to launch this new service, the industry will be watching closely. The airline’s evolution from a low-cost model to a hybrid carrier reflects a broader trend in the market, where traditional LCCs are diversifying to include premium services. With its business class introduction, IndiGo aims to compete more aggressively in the full-service segment while continuing to expand its market presence.
