IndiGo says Union govt to take decision on deal with Turkish carrier

IANS May 22, 2025 350 views

IndiGo's CEO Pieter Elbers highlighted the complex situation surrounding aircraft leases from Turkish Airlines, emphasizing compliance with regulatory frameworks. The airline's lease agreements are set to expire on May 31, with the final decision resting with the Indian government amid ongoing diplomatic tensions. Despite potential challenges, IndiGo reported impressive financial results, including a record quarterly profit of Rs 3,067.5 crore. The airline is also expanding its international presence by launching long-haul flights to Manchester and Amsterdam in July.

"It is important to recognise that the operation to Istanbul is taking place in the context of the Air Service Agreement" - Pieter Elbers, IndiGo CEO
IndiGo says Union govt to take decision on deal with Turkish carrier
New Delhi, May 22: IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers has said that IndiGo is fully compliant with all regulatory frameworks governing its operations with aircraft leased from Turkish Airlines, adding that the decision to renew these leases lies with the Indian government.

Key Points

1

IndiGo lease agreements with Turkish Airlines expire May 31

2

Government to decide on renewal amid security concerns

3

Airline reports record Q4 profit of Rs 3,067.5 crore

4

Launching long-haul flights to Manchester and Amsterdam in July

"It is important to recognise that the operation to Istanbul is taking place in the context of the Air Service Agreement (ASA) between India and Turkey. IndiGo is fully compliant with all regulatory frameworks and regulations which are there. We have thousands of Indian customers booked mostly beyond Istanbul," Elbers said on Wednesday during a media interaction on the airline's fourth-quarter and full-year financial results for 2024-25.

IndiGo operates direct flights to Istanbul using two Boeing 777 aircraft leased from Turkish Airlines, and offers codeshare connections to Europe and the US through its partnership with the Turkish carrier.

The lease agreements for the Boeing 777s are valid until May 31.

"...The decision to renew these leases lies with the Indian government," Elbers noted.

The IndiGO CEO's remarks came days after the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) revoked security clearance for Turkish company Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd on May 15, citing national security concerns.

The revocation of the security clearance follows mounting tensions between India and Turkey over the latter's diplomatic and military ties with Pakistan.

Meanwhile, IndiGo reported a record profit after tax of Rs 3,067.5 crore for the January-March quarter, marking a 62 per cent jump from Rs 1,894.8 crore in the same period last year.

"Driven by strong demand for air travel and execution of our strategy, for the financial year ended March 2025, IndiGo reported a healthy net profit of Rs 72,584 million. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, IndiGo reported a net profit of Rs 88,676 million, maintaining similar strong performance to the last year. For the quarter ended March 2025, IndiGo reported a net profit of Rs 30,675 million, the highest fourth quarter ever," the airline said in a statement.

The airline also announced the launch of direct long-haul flights from Mumbai to Manchester and Amsterdam starting July, marking its debut in long-haul international operations.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Government should prioritize national security over business interests. If Turkey is cozying up to Pakistan militarily, we must be cautious about aviation partnerships. IndiGo can find other partners in Europe - why take risks? 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
As a frequent flyer, I love IndiGo's Istanbul connection! The codeshare saves me ₹₹₹ on Europe trips. Hope the government considers passenger convenience too while making security decisions. 🤞
A
Amit S.
Impressive profits by IndiGo! Shows how strong our aviation sector is becoming. But they should invest more in Indian-made aircraft components to reduce foreign dependence. Make in India should apply to airlines too!
S
Sunita R.
The Manchester/Amsterdam flights are great news! Finally more direct options to Europe without transiting through Gulf. Hope ticket prices remain competitive. IndiGo has really changed air travel for middle class Indians.
V
Vikram J.
While security concerns are valid, we must not overreact. Turkey is an important trade partner and transit hub. A balanced approach would serve India's interests better than complete isolation.
N
Neha P.
The timing of this security clearance issue is suspicious - right when IndiGo is posting record profits. Hope this isn't pressure tactics to favor other airlines. Transparency is important in such matters.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
IndiGo Pieter Elbers Turkish Airlines Air Travel India-Turkey Relations Aviation Regulations