IndiGo’s business class launch draws insights on corporate travel dynamics, ET TravelWorld

IndiGo‘s recent announcement of launching business class and a loyalty program has sparked discussions on the evolving landscape of corporate travel in India. As the airline gears up to cater to premium travellers, key industry stakeholders, provided key insights into the significance of business travel in the country’s growing aviation sector.

Aloke Bajpai, Chairman, Managing Director & Group CEO, ixigo talking about the announcement said, “The IndiGo business class offering (IndiGo Stretch) is well timed because as the disposable income and aspirations of flyers in our country rises, there is an emerging critical mass of travellers willing to pay a premium for priority services, comfortable and reclining seats as well as gourmet meals.”

India’s position as an emerging powerhouse in the global business travel market was underscored by Sunny Sodhi, Managing Director of India, FCM Travel, who highlighted, “India will soon be the seventh largest business travel market in the world, and the aviation boom in India is most certainly supporting the growth in business travel.” He further noted the significant capacity growth in the country, with domestic flights operating at 110 percent and international flights at 119 percent compared to 2019.

Sodhi emphasised the essential nature of corporate travel, stating, “Corporate travel continues to be a critical facet for businesses as they look to survive, thrive, and grow at home and abroad – there’s no question businesses see travel as a non-discretionary spend.” He pointed out that FCM Travel India witnessed healthy growth in bookings during the April-June quarter, indicating a strong rebound in business travel compared to the same period last year.

This surge in capacity has had a positive impact on airfares, with Sodhi mentioning a 23 percent drop in average airfares for the April-June quarter this year compared to 2019. He attributed this to increased competition and the higher number of flights and seats available, benefiting travelers and businesses alike.In the context of IndiGo’s new business class offering, Sodhi’s insights underscore the importance of a well-rounded corporate travel program. “With our blended approach of people and innovative technology, travellers seek the alternative in what we give, offering a wide range of airline and hotel options for their travel program,” he said, highlighting the need for flexibility and choice in corporate travel services.

As IndiGo ventures into the business class segment, the airline’s move aligns with the broader trend of catering to the growing demand for premium travel experiences in India’s rapidly expanding aviation market.