Record number of Indian tourists to Azerbaijan last yearThe impact will be massive on Azerbaijan, located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, a favourite spot among Indians of late. According to the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, the number of arrivals from India in 2024 touched 2,43,589 – a 108% increase compared to 1,17,302 in 2023. The number of tourists were just 4,853 in 2014, marking a huge surge in the last decade. “The average Indian spent 2,208 AZN Manat (roughly Rs 1.1 lakh) in 2024,” it said.Presently, major travel booking platforms have suspended bookings to both the nations. Ixigo announced on May 9 that due to its love for the nation, it was stopping bookings to three countries. “In solidarity with our nation, Ixigo is suspending flight and hotel bookings for Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China. Because when it comes to Bharat, we don’t think twice. Jai Hind.”A day earlier, EaseMyTrip, put out this Travel Advisory calling upon the public to visit two of these nations only if absolutely necessary. “Following the Pahalgam attack and escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, travellers are urged to stay aware. As Turkey and Azerbaijan have shown support for Pakistan, we strongly recommend visiting only if absolutely necessary. Stay informed. Travel responsibly.”Indigo partnershipFormer Director General of Border Security Force, Prakash Singh posted this message drawing the attention of PMO office and the Ministry of Civil Aviation: “India must re-define its relations with Turkey. Any agreement on route-sharing between any Indian airlines and Turkish airlines must be terminated.”IndiGo connects flyers from multiple Indian cities to international cities via Turkish Airlines. Indigo is yet to respond to a query regarding its partnership.
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