IndiGo inducted India’s first Airbus A321XLR, launching non-stop Athens services and expanding long-range international operations
IndiGo has inducted the Airbus A321XLR aircraft into its fleet, becoming the first Indian airline to operate this aircraft type. The long-range variant of the Airbus A321neo arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport this morning.
The aircraft will be deployed on IndiGo’s non-stop international services between Mumbai and Athens starting 23 January 2026, and between Delhi and Athens starting 24 January 2026. Both routes will operate three times a week.
The Airbus A321XLR has a range of up to 8,700 kilometres and is designed for longer international operations using a single-aisle aircraft. IndiGo has configured the aircraft with a dual-class layout comprising 12 IndiGoStretch seats and 183 Economy Class seats. Seating on board is supplied by RECARO.
IndiGo has placed a firm order for 40 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, with nine deliveries scheduled during calendar year 2026. Following its initial deployment on the Athens routes, additional aircraft will be introduced on existing international services, including Istanbul and Denpasar, Bali. Subsequent deliveries are expected to support expansion into additional destinations in Europe and East Asia.
Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said, “IndiGo is honoured to be the first Indian airline to welcome the Airbus A321XLR into its fleet – an important milestone as we prepare to redefine long-haul travel for India. The advanced capabilities of this aircraft enable us to reach newer regions across the globe and further strengthen India’s position as a key player in international aviation. This reinforces our commitment to giving wings to the nation by connecting it to the world.”
Jürgen Westermeier, President & Managing Director, Airbus India and South Asia, said, “The arrival of the first A321XLR marks a new milestone in our journey with IndiGo and a proud moment for Indian aviation. We are honoured by the trust IndiGo places in Airbus, and we remain committed to supporting the airline as it continues to give wings to the nation’s aviation aspirations.”
He also added, “By opening up mid-to-long-haul routes that were previously unreachable by single-aisle aircraft, this delivery serves as a catalyst for IndiGo’s international growth while significantly enhancing India’s global connectivity. The A321XLR will act as a bridge, linking Indian cities to new destinations across the world and further support India’s ambition to become a global aviation hub.”
Dr. Mark Hiller, CEO of RECARO Aircraft Seating and RECARO Holding, said, “A great moment for celebration, the IndiGo maiden flight with the A321XLR and a cabin fully equipped with the RECARO premium seating solutions, R5 in business class and R2 in economy class. Both seats come with unparalleled comfort features which will make the flight a very pleasant one for all IndiGo passengers. Congratulations to the whole IndiGo team and Pieter Elbers for kicking off 2026 with this spectacular highlight. A true testament for the RECARO vision – driving comfort in the sky.”
Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International, said, “We are honored to be such an integral part of IndiGo’s continued success and are very excited by today’s introduction of the LEAP-powered A321XLR The extra-long-range capability of the aircraft, coupled with the benefits provided by our LEAP engines – including the more durable configuration we continue to roll out – launches an important new phase for IndiGo and its future growth.”
Aircraft Configuration and Onboard Services
The A321XLR operated by IndiGo features 12 IndiGoStretch seats in a 2×2 configuration with a 44-inch seat pitch and 6-inch recline. The Economy Class cabin consists of 183 seats with a 31-inch pitch and 5-inch recline. Additional features include adjustable headrests, lumbar support, in-seat power supply, and device holders.
IndiGo has partnered with Bluebox to provide a digital in-flight entertainment system accessible on personal devices. Available content includes films, television programmes, games, and animated content.
Complimentary hot meals and beverages will be served on these routes. Vegetarian meals will be provided as standard, with non-vegetarian options available for pre-booking. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase in Economy Class and will be complimentary for IndiGoStretch passengers.
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