Air India has initiated plans to reduce its reliance on Turkish Technic for the maintenance of its wide-body aircraft, citing public sentiment and recent geopolitical developments involving Turkiye. The airline’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, confirmed the strategic shift, emphasising the need to align operations with national considerations.
Turkish Technic, based in Istanbul, has been responsible for the heavy maintenance of Air India’s Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft. However, the airline now intends to redirect these operations to alternative Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facilities located in Southeast Asia, West Asia, and the United States. This move is part of a broader effort to recalibrate maintenance strategies in response to evolving international dynamics.
The decision follows Turkiye’s support for Pakistan during India’s Operation Sindoor, a military initiative targeting terror camps. Turkiye’s stance, including the supply of drones to Pakistan, has led to widespread public disapproval in India. In response, various sectors have taken measures to distance themselves from Turkish entities.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation recently granted IndiGo a final three-month extension on its lease agreement with Turkish Airlines, instructing the airline to terminate the lease by August 31, 2025. Additionally, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd, a Turkish ground handling company operating at several Indian airports, citing national security concerns.
Air India’s CEO acknowledged the challenges in transitioning away from Turkish Technic, noting that India’s domestic MRO capabilities for wide-body aircraft are currently limited. He stated that while some aircraft are already under maintenance, the airline is actively seeking alternative providers for upcoming maintenance needs.
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