Big Action on Pakistan Terror Supporter Turkey! Indigo Asked to End Ties With Turkish Airlines

In a significant development reflecting geopolitical tensions, India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has mandated that IndiGo terminate its wet lease agreement with Turkish Airlines by August 31, 2025. This decision comes amid escalating concerns over Turkey's support for Pakistan in recent conflicts, prompting calls within India to reassess bilateral engagements.

Big Action on Pakistan Terror Supporter Turkey! IndiGo Directed to End Ties with Turkish Airlines

BREAKING: IndiGo ordered to break ties Turkish Airlines, three-months to wrap up pic.twitter.com/Nw3t0lITgO

— Shiv Aroor (@ShivAroor) May 30, 2025

The wet lease arrangement, initiated in 2023, involved IndiGo operating two Boeing 777 aircraft leased from Turkish Airlines, complete with crew, maintenance, and insurance. These aircraft primarily serviced routes between Delhi, Mumbai, and Istanbul. While IndiGo had sought a six-month extension to this agreement, the DGCA granted only a final three-month extension, emphasizing that no further prolongations would be permitted.

This Directive Follows Heightened Scrutiny Of Turkey Geopolitical Stance 

The directive follows heightened scrutiny of Turkey's geopolitical stance, particularly its perceived alignment with Pakistan. This scrutiny intensified after Islamist militants attacked tourists in Kashmir, leading to Indian military responses and diplomatic strains.

Compounding the situation, Air India has reportedly lobbied against IndiGo's partnership with Turkish Airlines, citing national security concerns and potential commercial disadvantages.

The DGCA's decision underscores India's broader strategy to reassess and recalibrate international partnerships that may conflict with its national interests. As the August deadline approaches, IndiGo will need to explore alternative arrangements to maintain its international operations without reliance on Turkish collaborations. 

Furthermore, the move aligns with India's broader efforts to promote self-reliance in the aviation sector. By encouraging domestic carriers to invest in their own wide-body aircraft and reduce dependence on foreign partnerships, India aims to strengthen its aviation infrastructure and enhance its global competitiveness.

The termination of the IndiGo-Turkish Airlines partnership may also impact passengers who have come to rely on these routes. IndiGo will need to ensure a smooth transition to alternative arrangements to minimize disruptions and maintain customer satisfaction.

As the situation evolves, industry stakeholders will closely monitor the implications of this decision on India's aviation landscape and its international relations. The DGCA's directive serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between geopolitics and commercial aviation, highlighting the importance of aligning business strategies with national interests.