IndiGo Airlines, India’s largest low-cost carrier (LCC), has taken a strategic step by wet leasing four Airbus A320 aircraft from Freebird Airlines, a Turkish carrier. This move comes as the Gurugram-based airline continues to grapple with multiple challenges affecting its fleet. Issues such as engine-related problems, maintenance delays, and ongoing supply chain constraints have led to the grounding of several Airbus planes, putting pressure on the airline to maintain its service levels.
In response, IndiGo has been increasingly relying on wet leases to bolster its operations. Wet leasing allows the airline to lease aircraft along with their crew, maintenance, and insurance, providing a quicker solution to the current fleet issues. Over recent months, IndiGo has leased various aircraft, including Airbus A320s, Boeing 737 MAXs, and even larger Boeing 777s, as it works to mitigate operational disruptions.
The latest addition to IndiGo’s fleet through the wet lease agreement includes four Airbus A320s from Freebird Airlines. Freebird Airlines, based in Turkey and Malta, specializes in both scheduled and charter flights, primarily serving European holiday destinations. Antalya Airport, which serves as Freebird’s main hub, will now also play a key role in supporting the aircraft leased to IndiGo.
The wet lease deal is part of IndiGo’s broader strategy to ensure continuity in its operations despite the ongoing challenges faced by its fleet. By leasing aircraft from international carriers like Freebird Airlines, IndiGo can maintain flight schedules and meet growing passenger demand without immediate reliance on its in-house fleet’s full operational capacity.
This collaboration with Freebird Airlines is just one example of how IndiGo is navigating the current turbulence in the aviation industry. As the airline faces ongoing maintenance and supply chain issues, leasing aircraft from trusted international carriers like Freebird offers a practical solution to ensure smooth operations for passengers.