New Delhi: The Centre on Friday asked IndiGo to end its aircraft lease deal with Turkish Airlines within three months. This move came after Turkey supported Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, a military action by India against Pahalgam attack.
The government’s order is being seen as a strong message in response to Turkey’s stand. It also follows another major step where India cancelled the security clearance of Celebi Aviation, a Turkish company that handled ground services at nine important airports in the country, including Delhi.
What is the lease about?
IndiGo has leased two large aircraft, Boeing 777-300ER, from Turkish Airlines. These planes are used for long international routes. This type of lease is called a damp lease, where the aircraft comes with some services but is mostly operated by the Indian airline.
The lease was earlier allowed until May 31, 2025. IndiGo had requested an extension of six more months. However, the Civil Aviation Ministry has denied the request.
Instead, to avoid last-minute disruption and problems for passengers, the government has given a one-time, final extension for three months—until August 31, 2025.
A statement from the government said clearly, “IndiGo has been granted a one-time last and final extension of three months up to August 31, 2025. The airline has given an undertaking that it will end the lease with Turkish Airlines during this time and will not ask for any further extension.”
What IndiGo said
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers, in an interview with NDTV, said the airline always follows Indian rules and will make changes if needed.
He also said that out of IndiGo’s more than 400 aircraft, only two are leased from Turkish Airlines. “We operate under the government’s rules. If they change, we will adjust. Our top priority is to serve our passengers without causing any trouble to their travel plans,” he said.
IndiGo also has a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines, which means the two airlines share certain flights and services.
