Just six months after launching on 29 April 2026, the direct Chennai–Réunion service will be suspended on 22 October. IndiGo cites "insufficient demand" and rising costs. A blow for Indian tourism, which barely had time to take off.
A historic link with a very short lifespan
The Chennai–Roland-Garros route launched in April 2026 to considerable fanfare: the first direct service between India and Réunion, operating three weekly frequencies on an Airbus A320. Roland-Garros Airport had presented the route as a "bridge" to India, promising tourist, economic and cultural benefits. That bridge will close on 22 October 2026, for lack of passengers.
IndiGo's stated reasons
The Indian low-cost carrier cites "a thorough review of demand trends" and more constrained market conditions — including higher fuel costs and Middle East geopolitical tensions, which are weighing on its long-haul operations. IndiGo simultaneously suspended other loss-making Asian routes (Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Siem Reap) as part of a wider international network rationalisation.
A tourist hope deferred
India is one of the world's largest sources of tourists, with an active diaspora and a rapidly expanding middle class. For Réunion — which is seeking to diversify its tourism markets beyond metropolitan France and Mauritius — the direct connection was strategic. Its suspension, even if temporary, delays efforts to penetrate the Indian market. The airport is exploring a possible seasonal resumption in 2027, but without any guarantee.
Why it matters
The IndiGo suspension is a warning for Réunion's aviation strategy: a direct route alone is not enough without active promotion in the source market. The experience should push local tourism players to invest upstream — in India, before the next route opens — to ensure viable load factors and avoid another costly disappointment.
Source: Air Journal, La1ère, Imazpress, Linfo.re — July 2026