India’s largest airline IndiGo is in early-stage discussions with Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer for a potentially major regional jet order. According to people familiar with the matter, IndiGo is considering purchasing dozens of Embraer E2 aircraft to replace part of its ATR turboprop fleet while adding capacity to its growing regional network. There is no guarantee that the talks will result in a firm order.
If finalised, the deal could be worth billions of dollars before customary industry discounts and potentially become Embraer’s largest aircraft order in India. It would also strengthen the Brazilian manufacturer’s ambitions to establish a commercial aircraft manufacturing presence in the country.
The move would represent a notable shift for IndiGo, which has traditionally relied heavily on Airbus aircraft. As of March, IndiGo had a fleet of 441 aircraft, including 46 ATR regional turboprops, while around 900 aircraft are already scheduled for delivery over the coming decade.
The potential Embraer order also comes as the Brazilian company expands its India strategy. Embraer has partnered with the Adani Group to develop an aircraft manufacturing ecosystem in India, including plans for a potential final assembly line. The company has indicated that securing orders for at least 200 aircraft would be important before establishing a full assembly facility.
For IndiGo, Embraer’s regional jets could help bridge the capacity gap between smaller turboprops and the larger Airbus aircraft currently forming the backbone of its fleet. For Embraer, a major IndiGo order could provide a significant boost to its plans to deepen its manufacturing and commercial presence in India’s rapidly expanding aviation market.
