India has directed IndiGo Airlines to terminate its lease agreement with Turkish Airlines within three months, following Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The move marks a significant shift in diplomatic and commercial ties, signaling India’s reassessment of engagements with Turkish entities.
The Civil Aviation Ministry rejected IndiGo’s request for a six-month extension on its lease for two Boeing 777 aircraft, granting a final three-month extension until August 31, 2025. The government clarified that no further extensions would be permitted, effectively ending IndiGo’s leasing arrangement with Turkish Airlines.
IndiGo currently operates these aircraft under a damp lease model, meaning the airline receives the aircraft with limited support services while providing its own flight crew. The carrier also maintains a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines, allowing passengers to book joint flights across both networks.
India’s decision follows its recent revocation of security clearance for Turkish ground-handling firm Celebi Aviation, which operated at nine major airports, including Delhi. Authorities cited national security concerns as the reason for the cancellation.
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers responded to the directive, stating that the airline would comply with all government regulations. “We operate within the guidance of service agreements and government rules. If those rules change, we will adjust accordingly,” Elbers told NDTV.
The airline had sought a longer lease extension to avoid disruptions in its Delhi-Istanbul route, which serves as a key transit hub for Indian travelers heading to Europe and North America. However, the government’s firm stance reflects a broader diplomatic recalibration, with India reconsidering commercial and strategic engagements with Turkey.
Turkey’s support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, as well as its military assistance to Islamabad, including drone supplies, has raised concerns in New Delhi. The Indian government has also revoked academic ties with Turkish universities, while travel advisories have led to a sharp decline in Indian tourists visiting Turkey and Azerbaijan.
With the lease termination deadline set for August 31, IndiGo will need to explore alternative aircraft leasing arrangements to maintain its international operations. The airline’s compliance with the directive highlights the growing intersection of geopolitics and commercial aviation in India’s foreign policy decisions.
