IndiGo has introduced its first co-branded credit card tied to its year-old loyalty program, BluChip, marking another step in its push to evolve from a budget domestic airline to a global player.
The airline is launching the credit card in partnership with Kotak Mahindra Bank. The card lets customers earn extra loyalty points on both flights and everyday purchases like dining and entertainment.
Before it had the BluChip loyalty program, IndiGo offered 6E Rewards, a program tied to co-branded cards with HDFC and Kotak, which allowed travelers to earn points through spends.
This launch also fits into a wider trend of airlines using loyalty programs and credit card tie-ups to improve customer retention, increase direct bookings, and expand revenue streams beyond ticket sales. But for IndiGo, which until recently focused squarely on low-cost travel, this also marks a shift in strategy.
Why IndiGo Is Doing This Now? Over the last three years, IndiGo has been repositioning itself. Known for offering no-frills travel within India, it has since added international routes, launched a business-style product (IndiGoStretch), and explored partnerships with global airlines and service providers.
IndiGo also launched the loyalty program, BluChip in late 2024 as part of that transition. So far, the airline says over 3.5 million people have signed up. Now, with the addition of credit cards, IndiGo is trying to make the program more valuable.
What Do the Cards Offer? IndiGo is offering two types of credit cards:
IndiGo Kotak Credit Card: Designed for people who want basic travel perks along with everyday use. Spending INR 600,000 ($6,979) per year could earn over 30,000 BluChips.
IndiGo Kotak Premium Credit Card: Aimed at frequent flyers and bigger spenders. This card