In a significant boost to UK–India connectivity, IndiGo will begin direct flights between Manchester and Mumbai starting 1 July, marking the Indian airline’s first long-haul service to Europe.
The new route will operate thrice weekly—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The announcement strengthens Manchester Airport’s position as a major international gateway, making it the only airport in Northern England to offer a direct connection to India. Tickets for the new route are now on sale. Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, hailed the development as a milestone for the region. “This route makes us the only Northern airport with a direct connection to India. It will link half a million people of Indian heritage in our catchment to family and friends, and boost trade and investment with the world’s fastest-growing economy,” he said.
IndiGo’s expansion into the UK also reflects a broader strategic push to enter long-haul markets and elevate India’s global aviation presence. Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, said the launch marks “a pivotal moment” in the airline’s global journey. “Our Manchester–Mumbai route will offer seamless connections to over 90 Indian cities and enhance two-way tourism, education and business exchanges,” he said. Passengers on the new route will receive complimentary hot meals and beverages curated by Indian brands, a nod to the airline’s commitment to celebrating India’s cultural identity while enhancing customer experience. The timing of the launch aligns with growing UK–India ties, including the recent opening of a new Indian consulate in Manchester and the upcoming England–India Test series this summer. Both the airline and airport authorities anticipate the route will foster stronger economic, social and cultural bonds between the North of England and India.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, carried more than 118 million passengers last year across 130+ destinations, including over 90 domestic and 40 international cities. Its fleet exceeds 400 aircraft, with ambitions to evolve into a globally scaled carrier.
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IndiGo to launch direct Manchester Mumbai flight from July 1
