IndiGo defends codeshare deal with Turkish airlines amid social media outrage

Amid a surge of criticism on social media, budget carrier IndiGo has defended its ongoing codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines, citing the arrangement’s economic and strategic advantages for Indian travellers and the broader aviation ecosystem.

The backlash erupted after Turkey publicly supported Pakistan in the aftermath of India’s military offensive, Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Critics online have since urged IndiGo to sever ties with Turkey’s national carrier, questioning the ethics of the partnership in light of geopolitical developments.

In a statement shared with IANS, IndiGo reiterated that the codeshare operates within the limits of the bilateral Air Services Agreement (ASA) between India and Turkey, which permits both nations’ airlines to operate up to 56 flights per week.

“This arrangement provides multiple benefits to Indian travellers and the country’s economy,” the airline noted, adding that the partnership has expanded long-haul connectivity for Indian passengers—particularly valuable at a time of rising global airfares in the post-COVID era.

IndiGo said the increased international capacity enables more affordable travel options, especially for passengers from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities using two-stop international connections. The airline also underlined the wider economic impact of the codeshare, which it claims has created employment opportunities, boosted bilateral trade, and generated tax revenue for India.

“This operation keeps aircraft in active deployment and supports billions of dollars in trade between the two countries,” IndiGo stated, adding that the revenue generated from this initiative is being reinvested into further international expansion, strengthening India’s aviation capabilities.

Despite these assertions, online criticism has continued to mount. Social media user Lakhan Arjun Rawat questioned the partnership’s patriotism, posting: “@IndiGo6E When will you end your Partnership with Turkish Airlines? They are making profit from our citizens and using it against our nation.”

Noted advocate Sanjay Hegde also weighed in, suggesting that IndiGo should end the codeshare and explore alternative European routes, such as flying directly to Athens.

“IndiGo should stop the codeshare with Turkish Airlines. We can’t just ask people to do everything while these corporates keep making big moolah despite doing anti-national stuff,” wrote another user.

Currently, IndiGo operates direct flights to Istanbul with wide-body aircraft and offers codeshare connectivity to over 40 destinations across Europe and the US, supported by its robust domestic network.