DGCA extends IndiGo's wet lease of Turkish Airlines' Boeing 777s amidst tensions with Turkiye

Economic Times

a day ago

Civil aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved an extension of IndiGo's wet lease agreement with Turkish Airlines for three months, allowing the Indian carrier to continue operating two Boeing 777 aircraft on its Delhi and Mumbai to Istanbul routes beyond the previous May 31 deadline.This decision comes amidst increasing geopolitical tensions with Turkiye due to the country's support for Pakistan during recent conflicts. The government has also revoked security clearance for Turkish ground handler Celebi, reflecting strained diplomatic relations.The airline had sought an extension of six months according to a new policy which allows airlines to wet lease planes for a period of six months which can be extended by another six months by the regulator. IndiGo leased these planes last year in November.
IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, initiated the wet lease with Turkish Airlines in early 2023 to address capacity constraints caused by grounded Airbus A320neo aircraft due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues. The leased Boeing 777s, each accommodating up to 500 passengers, have been instrumental in maintaining the airline's international operations. IndiGo has defended the lease extension, highlighting its role in expanding travel options for Indian passengers and supporting the airline's foray into long-haul markets. The carrier has also announced plans to introduce its own wide-body fleet, with orders placed for Airbus A350-900 aircraft expected to commence deliveries in 2027.
'Flights between India and Türkiye are governed within the bilateral air service agreement. We are compliant today and we will continue to comply with any government regulations on those lines,' Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo said on Friday.The DGCA's extension permits IndiGo to operate the wet-leased aircraft adhering to regulatory norms that allow such arrangements under emergent circumstances. However, the regulator has previously expressed reservations about prolonged wet leases, emphasizing the importance of domestic carriers developing their own wide-body capabilities.'As the aviation industry navigates complex geopolitical landscapes, the DGCA's decision underscores the delicate balance between operational needs and national interests. The extension provides IndiGo with a temporary solution to its capacity challenges while the airline progresses towards establishing its own wide-body operations,' a government official said.IndiGo didn't comment on queries sent on the topic.