5 Most Popular Domestic Base and International Routes of IndiGo Airlines
There is a popular saying that says, "To travel is to live," and this is what every traveller feels by heart. Airways are the fastest and most convenient way to travel across cities, states, and countries. Every airport in India gives a sneak peek into the place's culture, its people, and its spirit. One of the most popular airlines in the world is IndiGo, with an average of 2100 daily flights connecting 125+ destinations.
IndiGo has the largest fleet size and market share. This blog discusses IndiGo's operations highlights and its significant presence at major Indian airports.
Top Domestic Bases of IndiGo in India
Delhi (DEL)
Indira Gandhi International Airport is the busiest airport in the country, with a 40% capacity share and 17.9 million seats. As the capital city's primary airport, Delhi remains IndiGo's busiest and most crucial hub. This airport can handle around 40 million passengers annually and serves as a strategic centre for all domestic and international flights in the country. The airport has three terminals operating around 1200 domestic and international flights daily. The luxury airport has many facilities like lounges, showers, massage chairs, snacks, drinks, and free Wi-Fi. Located almost 15 km from the city centre, the airport offers passengers free Volvo bus services and private cab facilities.
Mumbai (BOM)
Mumbai is served by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, India's second-busiest airport. This airport handles around 482 flights daily, leading to approximately 14,460 flights monthly. This remarkable volume exceeds its capacity of 50 million passengers per year. With 13.9 million seats, IndiGo has a 43% market share at Mumbai Airport. The airline runs many domestic and international flights from Mumbai Airport because Mumbai is India's financial hub.
Bengaluru (BLR)
Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport is the 3rd busiest airport in India. IndiGo operated over 100 daily non-stop flights from Bengaluru with a capacity of 2,500 passengers per hour during peak times. This airport has an expanded connectivity to 75 domestic and 30 international destinations. IndiGo possesses around 60% of its market share at Bengaluru Airport, with many airlines operating from here, including Air India, Air Asia, and Emirates. The airport is around 40 km from the city centre and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach.
Hyderabad (HYD)
IndiGo has the highest control over Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, with a staggering market share of 65% and over 10.8 million seats. This supremacy allows IndiGo to be the leading airline in one of India's fastest-growing metro cities, Hyderabad. The airport can handle approximately 40 million passengers annually, with around 1284 weekly scheduled take-offs. Hyderabad's airport is vast, having about 46 immigration counters and 96 check-in desks at the airport.
Chennai (MAA)
Chennai International Airport is India's 5th domestic base for IndiGo and is continuously in progress. IndiGo holds about 60% of the market share with 8 million seats, making it the 2nd largest market shareholder at Chennai Airport after Hyderabad. With an average departure of 200 flights per day, this airport has a capacity of over 21 million passengers annually. It is located about 15km southwest of the city centre and has domestic and international terminals.
Top 5 International Routes
Dubai (DXB) – Mumbai (BOM)
As expected, Dubai is among the most popular international travel destinations for Indians. IndiGo has a significant presence on this route for business and leisure passengers. IndiGo operates four flights every day from Mumbai to Dubai, making it the airline's busiest route.
Singapore (SIN) – Chennai (MAA)
South Indian tourists frequently travel to Singapore, making it the second-largest international sector with the maximum number of seats for the Chennai-Singapore route. With a substantial market share, IndiGo offers three daily flights between Chennai and Singapore, making it the airline's second most popular international route.
Delhi (DEL) – Kathmandu (KTM)
On IndiGo airline's list of busiest routes, the Delhi to Kathmandu route mostly ranks second or third. From March 2025, IndiGo will run three flights per day between Delhi and Kathmandu. As the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is a popular international travel destination for Indians, particularly those on business or vacation.
Doha (DOH) – Mumbai (BOM)
The Doha to Mumbai route again serves as an excellent link to the Middle East market. This route caters to corporate and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travellers. IndiGo operates three daily flights between Mumbai and Doha.
Hyderabad (HYD) – Doha (DOH)
This route is an important segment for IndiGo in the Middle Eastern market. IndiGo operates almost 20 flights per week on the Hyderabad to Doha route, making it the airline's fifth-largest international sector.
Factors Driving IndiGo's Market Dominance
IndiGo has secured a significant position in the airline industry due to its well-planned strategies and building a strong network with time. It has gained the reputation of being the most affordable airline without compromising its operational efficiency. By managing an efficient aircraft fleet, it successfully reduced maintenance costs and passed on cost savings to the customers. IndiGo has strategically improved its domestic and international expansion by adding new routes to increase connectivity.
Despite the challenges, the airline is well-positioned for long-term success thanks to its cost-effective business model, strategic planning, and fleet growth initiatives. IndiGo's capacity for innovation and adaptation will be essential to preserving its position as the industry leader in Indian aviation.