IndiGo expands European network, launches direct Mumbai-Copenhagen flights

IndiGo has spread its wings further into Europe with the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Copenhagen, marking its entry into the Scandinavian region and a fresh phase in the airline’s long-haul ambitions. The thrice-weekly service, operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on lease from Norse Atlantic Airways, connects India’s financial capital with one of Northern Europe’s busiest aviation hubs.

This is IndiGo’s third long-haul destination in Europe after Amsterdam and Manchester, both launched earlier this year. The new route makes Copenhagen the airline’s 44th international and 138th overall destination, as IndiGo steadily transforms from a dominant domestic carrier into a globally connected airline.

Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer of IndiGo, said the Copenhagen route opens a strategic gateway to the Nordic region at a time when the airline is accelerating its global network expansion. “With this connection, we continue to deepen our presence in Europe. It reflects our vision of evolving from a major Indian airline to a global aviation player,” Elbers said.

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The long-haul service features a dual-class cabin layout — Economy and IndiGoStretch — offering enhanced comfort and legroom for passengers on extended routes. The Dreamliner’s introduction marks a decisive step in IndiGo’s push into full-service-style operations, even as it retains its efficiency-driven low-cost model.

The launch also underscores growing economic and diplomatic engagement between India and Denmark under the Green Strategic Partnership announced in 2020. Danish Ambassador to India Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen described the route as “a tangible symbol of the strong partnership” between the two countries, while India’s Ambassador to Denmark, Manish Prabhat, said it would further “business, academic, and tourism exchanges and serve the wider Nordic market.”

For travelers, the new connection provides Indian passengers easy access to destinations across Northern Europe, while offering Scandinavian flyers access to IndiGo’s extensive domestic network of more than 90 Indian cities.

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Copenhagen Airport CEO Christian Poulsen said the direct service will strengthen business and leisure travel in both directions and cement Copenhagen’s position as Northern Europe’s leading aviation hub.

IndiGo’s foray into Europe comes amid rising outbound travel demand from India and increasing two-way trade with the region. After Istanbul, Manchester, and Amsterdam, Copenhagen further extends the airline’s European footprint, with London and Athens expected to follow.