India-Pakistan Tension: Flight Bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan Suspended, Passenger Advisory Issued
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, several online travel platforms have halted air ticket bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan, citing the two countries’ support for Pakistan. In response, advisories have been issued urging Indian travelers to avoid non-essential travel to these destinations.
Travel Platforms Respond Swiftly
Cox & Kings announced the temporary suspension of bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. Company Director Karan Agarwal stated, “This decision reflects our commitment to national values and traveler safety. We strongly advise Indian citizens to avoid travel to these nations unless absolutely necessary.”
EaseMyTrip echoed similar concerns, releasing a public advisory on social media platform X. Co-founder Nishant Pitti urged travelers to remain vigilant in light of the recent Pahalgam attack and geopolitical developments. “Turkiye and Azerbaijan have openly supported Pakistan. We advise customers to follow official updates and postpone plans to sensitive regions,” he said.
Travomint, another major travel company, also suspended all package sales to Turkey and Azerbaijan. Chairman and CEO Alok K. Singh stated, “We stand with India. In solidarity, we have stopped all travel packages to these nations. No cancellation charges will be applied for existing bookings, though emergency bookings will be honored if necessary.”
Wider Industry Impact
The hospitality sector has also been affected. Pradeep Shetty, Vice President of FHRAI and spokesperson for HRAWI, confirmed hotel booking cancellations across Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. “Events and travel plans are being called off. We are closely monitoring the situation,” he noted.
India’s Military Response: Operation Sindoor
In retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan reportedly responded with drone and missile strikes aimed at Indian military bases across multiple cities, to which the Indian Army gave a strong counter-response.