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IndiGo has made a significant move in its international expansion by introducing India’s first Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The new long-range plane recently began operating the Mumbai to Athens route. A content
creator who experienced the flight in the new Business Class, called Stretch, shared their first and honest impressions.
According to him, the premium cabin immediately impresses with more legroom, extra calf support, and a pillow already placed on the seat. Additional features like power sockets, USB charging ports, adjustable headrests, privacy flaps, as well as separate curtains and lavatories, enhance the overall comfort of the journey.
Stretch passengers also enjoy a dedicated check-in row at the airport, faster security and lounge access. Meals are served hot on board with proper cutlery, including veg and non-veg options, and alcohol is included. The crew provides an amenity kit and welcome drinks.
IndiGo Launches India’s First Airbus A321XLR
Taking to Instagram, the content creator shared, “I got to fly India’s first Airbus A321XLR. After witnessing her first touchdown at Delhi, it was time to see how she performs on her real mission, a long-haul flight. I’m flying Mumbai to Athens on the inaugural service, and I’m in IndiGo Stretch today, my first international Business Class experience. Gentle reminder: IndiGo is operating this route as a full-service product in both cabins, just like their other long-haul flights. The airport had its own little celebrations to mark the first flight.”
He further praised IndiGo’s new Stretch Business Class, highlighting the increased legroom, added calf support, and the pillow already placed on the seat, which creates an immediate visual impact.
He added that while features like power sockets, USB charging, adjustable headrests and privacy flaps are familiar from domestic flights, they “genuinely elevate the long-haul experience.” Highlighting cabin design, he mentioned that “One of the biggest wins is proper cabin separation. Curtains between Economy and Stretch mean more privacy, separate lavatories and a calmer cabin with no constant foot traffic, something you really appreciate over 8 hours.”
As per the individual, “Stretch passengers get a dedicated check-in row, Business Class security and lounge access. Compared to the domestic Stretch, the international version feels more refined and definitely more VFM. I chose seat 3A (left side), the Athens landing views are stunning. Only downside? The sun stays on your side for most of the flight.”
Hot Meals, Drinks And Amenity Kits Enhance Experience
Sharing details about the services, the creator shared that after settling down, “the crew welcomed us with a Stretch exclusive hydrate bottle, a welcome drink (ABC juice or Aam Panna). Later came the amenity basket with socks, a dental kit and a blanket you can take home. Meal service exceeded expectations. Both cabins had veg and non-veg options.”
He also praised the meal service, saying that “unlike domestic cold box meals, here you get hot meals with proper cutlery and tray service, instantly premium and more VFM. Alcohol is free in Stretch. No collectable nut case on long haul, sorry mom and dad. The food was generous, the flavours were really good, and everything was well executed. It was solid 10/10. I stepped out of the aircraft feeling fresh, not drained and ready to explore Athens, and honestly, that’s what matters most.”
IndiGo Plans To Expand Routes
IndiGo began operating its new Airbus A321XLR on international routes, starting with Mumbai to Athens on January 23 and Delhi to Athens on January 24. The flights will run three times a week in both directions. This modern, fuel-efficient aircraft can fly up to 8,700 km nonstop and features two classes: 12 seats in the new Business Class, called IndiGo Stretch, and 183 seats in Economy.
IndiGo has ordered 40 of these planes, with nine expected to arrive later in 2026. After launching nonstop flights to Athens, the airline plans to deploy the new aircraft on existing international routes such as Istanbul and Bali. As more planes arrive, IndiGo aims to introduce new long-haul flights to additional destinations across Europe and East Asia.
