During a media briefing in New Delhi, Elbers highlighted IndiGo’s full compliance with current aviation regulations as it embarks on a substantial global expansion. The airline intends to introduce direct flights to 10 new international destinations in the ongoing financial year, including major cities such as London, Athens, Amsterdam, and Manchester.
In response to a question about @IndiGo6E‘s leasing agreement with @TurkishAirlines
Here’s what Pieter Elbers said ????
A summary of what he conveyed to reporters and analysts after the Q4 results:– We operate within the context of the regulatory framework
– We have many Indian customers… https://t.co/xhVtCp1qiP
— Madeeha Mujawar (@madeehamedia) May 30, 2025
“Unless there is a modification in the regulatory framework, our existing leasing agreement with Turkish Airlines will persist,” Elbers asserted, addressing concerns regarding IndiGo’s use of Boeing 777s and 787s leased from the Turkish airline for long-haul international routes. “We operate in accordance with the current regulations. If there are any changes in the rules, we will respond appropriately.”
IndiGo’s utilization of wet-leased aircraft — planes operated by another airline but flying under the IndiGo brand — has garnered attention as the airline expands into long-haul services. Upcoming flights to Manchester and Amsterdam, set to commence in July from Mumbai, will be facilitated by Boeing 787-9 aircraft under this arrangement.
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The leasing arrangement with Turkish Airlines is pivotal to IndiGo’s strategy to accelerate international growth without the need for its own long-range fleet. Currently, the airline serves over 90 domestic and 40 international destinations, with plans to reach 50 international cities by year-end.
Along with new European routes, the expansion includes flights to four Central Asian destinations and Southeast Asian locations such as Siem Reap. Domestically, IndiGo aims to bolster connectivity by adding four airports: Hindon, Adampur, Navi Mumbai, and Jewar.
IndiGo, the largest airline in India by market share, operates over 2,300 daily flights with a fleet exceeding 430 aircraft. Its expansion plans for 2024–25 are fueled by India’s surging air travel demand and improving airport infrastructure.
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“The Indian aviation industry is at a critical juncture,” Elbers remarked. “We are enthusiastic to spearhead the next stage of growth with a strategy that harmonizes agility, scale, and regulatory adherence.”
Despite increasing scrutiny, IndiGo’s leasing arrangement with Turkish Airlines will persist unless the government enacts a policy change — a position that underscores both the significance of the deal to IndiGo’s global aspirations and the influence of regulation on international airline operations.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
First Published: May 30, 2025 12:38 PM IST
