India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is in talks with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer to acquire 100 regional jets, with an option to purchase around 50 additional aircraft. The discussions are at an early stage, and the deal is not guaranteed, according to people familiar with the matter.
The aircraft model and final order size have not yet been decided. If concluded, the purchase could become one of Embraer’s largest commercial aircraft orders. Deliveries are expected to begin no earlier than 2030.
Neither IndiGo nor Embraer immediately responded to requests for comment.
Regional Fleet Expansion
The proposed purchase could help IndiGo expand its network to smaller cities and regional destinations. The airline may also use the aircraft to replace some of its ATR turboprops, allowing it to offer more seats on selected routes.
Embraer manufactures the E175-E1, which can accommodate up to 88 passengers, along with the newer E190-E2 and E195-E2 models, which can seat up to 114 and 146 passengers, respectively. The aircraft model under consideration by IndiGo has not been finalised.
A successful order for 100 aircraft could be worth billions of dollars at list prices, although actual contract values typically include substantial discounts.
IndiGo’s Fleet Strategy
IndiGo plans to expand its fleet to around 600 aircraft by 2030, from 442 aircraft in September 2026. Its current fleet primarily consists of Airbus narrow-body aircraft, alongside 44 ATR turboprops.
The airline is also pursuing long-haul expansion while maintaining its low-cost short-haul operations. CEO Willie Walsh, who took charge in August 2026, has outlined plans to grow the airline’s international network.
Potential Boost for Embraer in India
An agreement with IndiGo would give Embraer a significant opportunity in India’s expanding aviation market. Star Air is currently the only Indian airline operating Embraer aircraft.
Embraer has also signed a non-binding agreement with Adani Defence and Aerospace to explore setting up a final assembly line in India for its E175-E1 aircraft. The company has previously indicated that the proposed facility would depend on securing orders for at least 200 aircraft.
The discussions with IndiGo could therefore become an important development for Embraer’s efforts to expand its presence in India, although no purchase agreement has been confirmed.
