The country’s largest airline IndiGo has given a big shock to the passengers. The company has announced that it will temporarily stop its direct flight services operating between India and Manchester, UK from August 31, 2026. The decision comes at a time when the airlines industry is facing challenges such as rising costs, high fuel prices and international airspace restrictions.
IndiGo currently operates direct flights to Manchester from Delhi and Mumbai. These include three flights a week from Delhi and four flights a week from Mumbai. This service was started in July 2025, but even before the completion of one year, the company has decided to discontinue it.
Why was this decision taken?
According to the airline, several airspace restrictions are in place due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Due to this, flight time has increased and operating costs have increased significantly. Apart from this, rising prices of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates are also putting more pressure on the company. Indigo says that under these circumstances, operation of this route has become much more expensive than before, due to which this step had to be taken.
What will be the impact on passengers?
After the closure of direct flights to Manchester, there will be no non-stop flights left between India and this British city. In such a situation, passengers may now have to resort to connecting flights through other cities. This may increase both travel time and expense. IndiGo has clarified that the Manchester service is being temporarily closed at present. In future, when the situation becomes normal and costs come down, the company may consider starting flights on this route again.
Reduction in domestic flights also
IndiGo is making changes not only on international routes but also in the domestic network. According to reports, the company is preparing to reduce its domestic flights by 12 to 15 percent during the September quarter. The main reasons for this are said to be rising fuel costs and softening travel demand.
