IndiGo’s Turkish Jet Lease Extended Six Months
India’s civil aviation regulator, the DGCA, has granted a six-month extension for IndiGo to operate two Boeing 777 aircraft leased from Turkish Airlines. The lease, which was set to expire on August 31, will now run until February 28, 2026.
Reason for Reversal
This move reverses an earlier directive issued in May, when the DGCA had restricted IndiGo to a three-month final extension. The decision comes despite ongoing geopolitical concerns, including Turkey’s support for Pakistan during regional tensions.
Operational Benefits
IndiGo said the continuation of the lease will help maintain stability during peak travel demand. The airline is currently facing operational challenges due to Pakistan’s airspace closure, which has forced longer and more expensive flight rerouting. The leased wide-body jets are mainly deployed on the Delhi–Istanbul and Mumbai–Istanbul routes, ensuring additional passenger and cargo capacity.
Market Reaction
The extension is expected to strengthen IndiGo’s international operations at a time when revenue growth has slowed. Market analysts suggest that the decision may have a positive impact on InterGlobe Aviation, IndiGo’s parent company, as it helps secure capacity for long-haul flights amid growing demand.
