IndiGo Unlikely to Cancel Deal with Turkish Airlines Amid Backlash Over India-Pakistan Scuffle

IndiGo isn’t considering to revoke its leasing arrangement with Turkish Airlines unless the government issues an order amid India-Turkey aviation sector heat over India-Pakistan scuffle. The airline will take the required action if the government changes the rules, the Cnbctv18 reported. Commenting on the Indian airline giant’s global expansion spree, CEO Pieter Elbers on Friday said the major has planned to add direct flights to 10 international destinations, including London, Athens, Amsterdam and Manchester. 

“Unless there is a change in the regulatory framework, our current leasing arrangement with Turkish Airlines will continue...We operate within the context of the rules as they are today. If the rules change, we will take appropriate action,” said Elbers, according to Cnbctv18.

Also Read: Aircraft Objects Bill Takes Off in Lok Sabha; Check How It Will Give Leasing a Legal Boost in India

IndiGo’s use of wet-leased aircraft with Turkish Airlines has garnered attention, especially as it has ventured into long-haul operations. In the case, of a wet lease, the lessor provides a complete package of services, including crew, maintenance, and insurance. These deals are usually preferred by airlines to cater to demand during peak season or during a shortage of aircraft. The deal with the Turkish Airlines is a significant strategy adopted by IndiGo to streamline and fast-track international growth without having to wait for its own long-range fleet. 

Presently, India’s largest airline by market share is serving over 90 domestic and 40 international destinations. IndiGo has planned to reach 50 international cities by the end of the year. Apart from the new European routes, the airline has planned to spread its wings to four Central Asian and Southeast Asian destinations. 

IndiGo is set to take charge of the next phase of growth at a time when the Indian aviation sector is at an inflection point, the CEO reportedly said. 

The development comes amidst rising tensions between the Indian and Turkish aviation sector especially after the Indian government revoked the Turkey government-backed Celebi Aviation’s security clearance to operate in India, giving a blow to its business in the country.