IndiGo has clarified that its codeshare deal with Turkish Airlines and the use of wide-body aircraft through a damp lease are fully in compliance with Indian regulations. CEO Pieter Elbers emphasized that these operations follow the India-Turkey bilateral air services agreement. Despite political tensions, the airline continues to fly Indian passengers via Istanbul to over 40 destinations in Europe and North America.
Lease Renewal Pending Government Decision
The current damp lease of two high-capacity Boeing 777 jets from Turkish Airlines is due to expire this month. IndiGo cannot extend the lease without approval from the Indian government. Elbers noted that while the airline values the partnership, it is ultimately the government’s call and IndiGo has contingency plans in place.
Political Backdrop Influencing Decisions
Tensions between India and Turkey have influenced public opinion and regulatory scrutiny. Turkey’s open support for Pakistan during the recent military conflict and the use of Turkish drones by Pakistan have led to calls within India to reconsider business ties, including IndiGo’s leasing arrangement and codeshare deal.
Operational Impact and Contingency Plans
If the lease isn’t renewed, IndiGo is prepared to switch back to using its narrow-body Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft for the India-Turkey route, as it has done in the past during lease gaps or technical issues with the Boeing 777s. Elbers reiterated that the airline is experienced in adjusting its international and domestic operations when needed.
India-Turkey Aviation Agreement Allows Flexibility
Under the existing air services agreement, Indian and Turkish carriers can each operate up to 28 weekly flights between the countries with no cap on seat numbers per flight. This has allowed IndiGo to benefit from higher-capacity leased aircraft on the busy India-Istanbul route, given the city’s role as a major global transit hub.
Uncertainty Ahead
With the recent cancellation of airport ground handling firm Çelebi’s clearance and broader scrutiny of Turkish firms in India, the renewal of the IndiGo-Turkish Airlines lease remains uncertain. IndiGo awaits the government’s decision while maintaining that it will adapt its strategy as needed.
