Ixigo suspends bookings to Turkiye, Azerbaijan, and China amid geopolitical tensions, citing pro-Pakistan stance. Reassessment will depend on evolving conditions.
In a significant move reflecting the intersection of geopolitics and consumer business, Indian travel aggregator Ixigo has announced that it will continue to block bookings to Turkiye, Azerbaijan, and China, citing recent developments in the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
Ixigo’s decision stems from what it describes as a pro-Islamabad stance taken by these West Asian countries in the current diplomatic standoff. The action echoes similar steps taken by other travel firms, including Cox & Kings and EaseMyTrip, which have paused services and issued travel advisories for destinations deemed diplomatically sensitive.
We remain dedicated to reviewing our position on this issue as the situation evolves, We will reassess our stance on the basis of how the geopolitical equations change, and will do what is right for the broader travel ecosystem.”
Aloke Bajpai, Chairman and Group CEO of Ixigo.
The company first announced the suspension of bookings to these destinations via a post on social platform X (formerly Twitter), where Bajpai reiterated the company’s stance on national sentiment and responsible corporate action.
While China, Turkiye, and Azerbaijan are popular among Indian outbound tourists for their cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and affordability, the ongoing conflict and diplomatic sensitivities have cast a shadow over travel plans. The temporary travel suspension, according to Ixigo, is being undertaken to ensure both safety and alignment with broader national interests.
Despite the restrictions, Ixigo has reported robust business momentum, projecting double-digit revenue growth in the current fiscal year. The company attributes this growth to strong domestic demand, rising user spending, and shifting travel patterns toward neutral and safer global destinations.
This development underscores the increasing influence of international diplomacy on private enterprises, especially those in globally integrated sectors like travel and tourism. As the situation remains fluid, Ixigo has committed to making timely reassessments in consultation with government advisories and public sentiment.
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