IndiGo Airlines (6E, Delhi International) has released further details of the impact of the Pratt & Whitney powder metal issue on its fleet. The low-cost carrier says it has received additional information from the engine manufacturer, and they anticipate having around 35 aircraft on the ground during the first quarter of 2024.
"During our recent Q2 earnings call, IndiGo had already indicated a likely increase in the number of engine removals in the January - March quarter leading to a higher number of groundings in light of this powder metal issue," reads a November 7, 2023, statement issued by the airline. "These groundings will be incremental to the current aircraft on ground."
IndiGo operates 178 A320-200Ns and ninety-four A321-200NX. According to ch-aviation fleets data, it currently has thirty-four A320-200Ns and eleven A321-200NX out-of-service, although the reasons for this vary. The airline is betting big on the Airbus neo narrowbodies, with another 954 of the type on order.
"Going forward, we continue to work with Pratt & Whitney on more information and addressing the situation and implementing mitigation measures to minimize the impact of these AOGs on our capacity in Q4 FY23-24 and beyond," the statement reads. "IndiGo also remains confident in meeting its long-term capacity guidance."
