IndiGo aims to reduce grounded aircraft to mid-40s by April 2025

IndiGo, India’s largest airline by domestic market share and fleet size, announced on October 25 that it expects to reduce its grounded aircraft count to the mid-40s by April 2025 or early fiscal year 2025-26. This marks a reduction from a high of around 60 aircraft grounded as of September due to parts shortages and engine issues.

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The grounded fleet, known as Aircraft on Ground (AOG), has been impacted largely by supply-chain delays and inspections following Pratt & Whitney’s (P&W) recall of hundreds of PW1100G engines. These engines, popular for their fuel efficiency, were found to have defects in their powder metal, leading to potential cracks. However, P&W has assured IndiGo that repairs are underway, which will allow around 35 grounded aircraft to return to service by April.

Its Chief Financial Officer stated in an earnings call that as IndiGo brings grounded planes back into operation, it will gradually phase out its damp-leased aircraft, helping to reduce rental expenses for aircraft and engines. He also noted that spending on AOG mitigation will taper off, which is expected to improve IndiGo’s financial outlook in upcoming quarters.

This reduction strategy comes as IndiGo works to address operational challenges and strengthen its financial stability amid ongoing industry pressures.