Centre Directs Indigo To End Aircraft Lease Pact With Turkish Airlines

In a strong move against Turkey for backing Pakistan, which shelters terrorists, the Indian government on Friday directed IndiGo to terminate its aircraft lease agreement with Turkish Airlines within three months.

IndiGo currently operates two Boeing 777s on lease from Turkish Airlines.

The airline had sought a six-month extension of its lease, which was valid until 31 May.

However, the Civil Aviation Ministry denied the request, according to multiple reports.

To prevent immediate disruption to passengers, the ministry granted a final extension of three months, ending on 31 August.

The ministry stated, “IndiGo has been granted a one-time last and final extension of three months up to 31.08.2025 for these damp-leased aircraft, based on the undertaking from the airline that they will terminate the damp lease with Turkish Airlines within this extension period and shall not seek any further extension.”

National Security Concerns Prompt Action

The decision follows growing tensions over Turkey’s open support for Pakistan, especially after Operation Sindoor.

The Indian government views this as a national security threat. Earlier, on 15 May, the Centre also revoked the security clearance of Turkish ground-handling firm Celebi Aviation.

Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said, “Turkey had openly supported Pakistan. In view of the current situation, this has become an issue of national security. Keeping security in mind, Celebi has been banned in the country.”

Turkey expressed solidarity with Pakistan during and after the early phase of Operation Sindoor.

Turkish drones were reportedly used in Pakistan’s counterattacks following India’s strike on terrorist camps.

IndiGo Lease To End By August: CEO Responds

IndiGo also maintains a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines.

CEO Pieter Elbers said last week that IndiGo complies with all regulatory frameworks in its operations with Turkish-leased aircraft.

He clarified that the decision to extend the lease rests solely with the Indian government.

“Our Istanbul operations are under the Air Service Agreement (ASA) between India and Turkey. IndiGo is fully compliant with all regulations. Thousands of Indian customers are booked, mostly beyond Istanbul,” Elbers stated during a media briefing on the airline’s 2024–25 financial results.

“The decision to renew these leases lies with the Indian government,” he added.

The government has made it clear: there will be no further extension after 31 August.

The IndiGo aircraft lease arrangement with Turkish Airlines will end, aligning with India’s firm stance as Turkey supports Pakistan and national security takes precedence.

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