IndiGo Launches 'Stretch' Business Class Product

‍DALLAS — Breaking news is coming from India, as the largest low-cost carrier IndiGo (6E) announced the introduction of a brand-new Business Class, an enormous strategic turn in its business model.

The airline unveiled the 'IndiGo Stretch' product as it celebrated its 18th anniversary. Stretch will begin to be available on flights on November 14, 2024.

Besides introducing a new premium seating, IndiGo has created a specific mileage program called 'BluChip'. Several new routes were also presented at the conference.

The RECARO R5 seat, also chosen by AS for its 737 fleet, is the most important piece of the *Stretch* product. Image: RECARO

Recaro’s R5 Arrives at IndiGo

IndoGo has selected the RECARO R5 premium seat as part of the new Stretch product. This seat, recognizable by its privacy headrests and wide pitch, is the same as the one chosen by Alaska Airlines (AS) for its new premium cabin retrofit programs on the Boeing 737.

IndiGo, on the other hand, will place up to 12 seats across three rows on their Airbus A320 family planes from November. These will be firstly available on routes out of New Delhi and progressively added to other segments inside the Indian aviation market.

In addition to the new seat, Stretch will include a premium selection of catering for the passengers, ranging from small gourmet snacks to full-size hot meals.

With the future delivery of the A321XLR, the IndiGo Stretch seat will become much more attractive on the low-cost carrier's longest flights. Photo: Alberto Cucini/Airways

Full Business Class or Just a Premium Seat?

It is important always to draw a line between what should be considered a full Business Class product and just a wider seat at the front of the plane.

Pending a full description of the Stretch experience from the airline, we are still awaiting confirmation of the addition of separate premium services that truly characterize a traditional business-class product.

These services include access to a lounge, separate check-in desks, fast-track lanes, priority boarding, and so on. Business travelers most appreciate These aspects, apart from simply a wider seat and better meal selection.

In the United States, Spirit Airlines (NK) “Big Front Seat” is not considered Business Class because it lacks many of the complimentary amenities described above. IndiGo’s case, as it is also a low-cost carrier, boundaries should be set to prevent the depreciation of the attention to detail and luxury placed by traditional airlines across the world.

What are your thoughts on the 'IndiGo Stretch' seat? Would you be willing to add this extra to your flight to make your journey more comfortable? Let us know your opinion on our social media platforms!