In a move laced with geopolitical undertones, IndiGo will sever its leasing arrangement with Turkish Airlines by August 31, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced on Friday. The development was only expected – it stems from growing concerns over Turkey’s support for Pakistan and its public condemnation of India’s air strikes on terror camps earlier this month.
IndiGo operates two Boeing 777-300ER aircraft under a damp lease agreement with Turkish Airlines, deploying them for direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Istanbul. A damp lease involves renting aircraft and cockpit crew from another airline while employing the lessee’s own cabin crew.
The decision was made after the regulator granted IndiGo a “one-time, last and final” three-month extension—far short of the six-month renewal the airline had requested. The DGCA stated the extension was issued “based on the undertaking from the airline that they will terminate the damp lease… and shall not seek any further extension.”
IndiGo’s lease was originally set to expire on May 31. Despite attempts to prolong the arrangement, the aviation watchdog held firm, signalling no tolerance for further delays.
The diplomatic fallout from Turkey’s stance has triggered a chain reaction across the aviation and travel sectors. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has revoked the security clearance of Turkish ground handling firm Celebi Airport Services, citing “national security” concerns. Simultaneously, travel associations and online platforms have rolled out advisories against visiting Turkey.
Although IndiGo has repeatedly defended its alliance with Turkish Airlines, touting the benefits to Indian flyers, job creation, and international connectivity, the tide has turned. Speaking on the matter, CEO Pieter Elbers affirmed that they “will continue to comply with any government regulations.”
Last week, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu revealed that the ministry had been assessing feedback from IndiGo and security agencies prior to reaching a final decision. That verdict now stands—firm, final, and politically charged.
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