India restores aircraft leasing arrangements with Turkish Airlines

New Delhi: India has reinstated aircraft leasing agreements between Indian and Turkish carriers, providing a much-needed boost to international connectivity and operational stability for domestic airlines.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved a six-month extension for an Indian airline to lease two Boeing 777 aircraft from a Turkish operator. The decision extends a previous three-month limit and comes at a time when carriers are navigating longer and costlier flight paths due to regional airspace constraints.

Industry experts note that access to wide-body aircraft is critical for maintaining viable operations on long-haul routes such as India–Turkey, where smaller aircraft are less efficient and commercially unfeasible. Without these leased jets, airlines risk reduced competitiveness, potentially impacting capacity and ticket pricing for travellers.

The move also reflects a broader focus on supporting a balanced aviation ecosystem. By facilitating access to fuel-efficient, long-range aircraft, the decision helps airlines manage costs, maintain schedules, and improve sustainability through optimised fuel consumption on extended routes.

For India’s aviation sector, the approval provides stability, ensuring that carriers can continue serving high-demand markets while safeguarding consumer choice and service quality. Industry observers see the development as a positive step that reinforces India’s role in fostering resilient and sustainable air connectivity.