IndiGo Stretch+ Airbus A321neo

From sceptic to believer - how IndiGo's business class blew me away

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Background

As a frequent flyer with thousands of hours in the air, I've experienced my fair share of cabins. However, my recent experience with Indian carrier IndiGo surprised me. It's the world's fastest-growing airline, with almost 1,000 aircraft on order (including 30 Airbus A350s), and recently launched flights from Mumbai to London Heathrow.

As a newcomer to India, I was feeling a little anxious at the thought of flying domestically with a low-cost carrier. Various stories - some exaggerated, some outdated - flashed through my mind: chaos at the airport, delays and discomfort in the cabin. Still, my curiosity got the better of me and I booked a Stretch+ seat on one of IndiGo's brand-new A321neos from Delhi to Mumbai.

What followed shattered my expectations. IndiGo didn't just prove me wrong; it provided one of the smoothest, smartest and most pleasant short-haul flights I've had in years.

Check-in

The journey began the night before my flight when I checked in via IndiGo's mobile app. It was as quick and intuitive as any premium airline platform I've used. Within minutes, I had my mobile boarding pass, a scannable QR code and confirmation messages via email and WhatsApp. Helpful and reassuring.

The next afternoon, I stepped into Delhi's Terminal 1, passport at the ready, and was met by a uniformed guard who scanned my pass and pointed me towards the check-in area. A long line loomed ahead - but thanks to IndiGo's self-service kiosks, I skipped it. In under three minutes, boarding pass in hand and carry-on in tow, I was through security and into the terminal's vibrant heart.