IndiGo is reportedly in early discussions to buy 100 regional jets from Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer, with an option for about 50 more, a potential order that could reshape the airline’s plans for regional connectivity and fleet growth. The discussions, however, have not been confirmed by either company and no deal has been finalised.
Three people with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters that the number of aircraft under discussion was 100, with a further option for approximately 50 jets. The sources spoke on condition of anonymity. They said the aircraft model had not been finalised and that the number of planes could change.
IndiGo and Embraer did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to the report. The absence of confirmation means the reported order should be treated as an early-stage possibility rather than a committed fleet purchase.
If an agreement is reached, deliveries would likely begin from 2030 at the earliest, two of the sources said. A purchase of 100 aircraft could be worth billions of dollars at list prices, although large commercial aircraft deals commonly involve discounts. The report did not establish the potential value of any agreement under discussion.
The aircraft type would determine how IndiGo could use the jets. Embraer’s E175-E1 can carry up to 88 passengers, while its newer E190-E2 and E195-E2 models can accommodate up to 114 and 146 passengers respectively. The newer aircraft use more fuel-efficient engines, according to the report.
For IndiGo, regional jets could provide an alternative to its current fleet mix, which is dominated by Airbus narrowbody aircraft but also includes 44 ATR turboprops. An Embraer purchase could allow the airline to add routes to regional destinations or provide more seats on existing services, while potentially replacing some turboprop operations. The report did not specify which routes or airports would be affected.
The discussions also intersect with Embraer’s effort to deepen its presence in India, the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market. The Brazilian company has been marketing its regional aircraft to Indian airlines. Earlier this year, it signed a non-binding pact with Adani Defence & Aerospace to explore a final assembly line in India for older-generation E175-E1 jets.
Embraer chief executive Francisco Gomes Neto said in March that the proposed Indian assembly line depended on orders for at least 200 aircraft. He said jets assembled in India could be delivered from 2028 if orders were secured by the end of 2026. The reported IndiGo discussions, even if they advance, would therefore represent only part of that stated requirement.
IndiGo has been expanding its fleet as it seeks to serve long-term growth in air travel. Its chief executive, Willie Walsh, who took charge in August, has said the airline intends to expand long-haul flying without compromising its low-cost short-haul business. IndiGo plans to grow its fleet to around 600 aircraft by 2030 from 442 as of September, according to the report.
Embraer is currently operated by only one Indian airline, the regional carrier Star Air. The next confirmed step in the reported discussions would be an official response from IndiGo or Embraer, followed by clarity on whether a firm order, aircraft model or delivery schedule emerges.
