Operation Sindoor: Turkey, Azerbaijan pay price for supporting Pak; flight bookings drop 60%, cancellations up 250%

New Delhi: Boycott Turkey and Azerbaijan is trending on social media after the two nations supported Pakistan during recent India-Pakistan tensions.

#BoycottTurkeyAzerbaijan, #BoycottTurkey, and #IndiaFirst have been trending across Indian social media platforms since May 11.

These trends emerged after Turkey and Azerbaijan expressed support for Pakistan during the recent India-Pakistan conflict.

Turkey and Azerbaijan drew criticism from Indian social media users after voicing their support for Islamabad, following Indian Armed Forces’ strikes on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor, conducted in the early hours of May 7.

Many users on X suggested alternative travel destinations like Greece and Armenia, encouraging people to avoid vacationing in Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Travel to Turkey Hit

An 11-day trip to Turkey costs around Rs 4 lakh for accommodation alone. Generally, it takes approximately 15 days for visa approval. Tourists are required to pay half the amount before the visa process and the remaining amount after visa approval. One tourist who had planned a trip to Turkey mentioned that travel agents have advised cancelling the trip. The amount paid will be refunded after deducting minimal charges.

Travel Agents Discourage Tourism

Speaking to NewsMeter, travel agents from Bangalore reported a significant drop in interest among people to visit Turkey and Azerbaijan. They noted that tourist traffic has decreased by about 50% compared to usual levels. Flight bookings to these two countries have dropped by 60% in the past week, while cancellations have surged by 250%.

Several travel agents have already discontinued all promotions and offers for Turkey and Azerbaijan on their platforms to discourage tourism. “If you’re planning a vacation or business trip to Turkey or Azerbaijan, it might be wise to put those plans on hold unless necessary,” was a common statement from agents.

In a statement, a MakeMyTrip spokesperson said: “Indian travellers have expressed strong sentiments over the past one week, with bookings for Azerbaijan and Türkiye decreasing by 60%, while cancellations have surged by 250% during the same period. In solidarity with our nation and out of deep respect for our armed forces, we strongly support this sentiment and advise against all non-essential travel to Azerbaijan and Türkiye.”

Online travel company EaseMyTrip.com also issued an advisory urging travellers to reconsider non-essential trips to Turkey and Azerbaijan. "In light of the Pahalgam terror attack on 22nd April 2025 and war-like situations between India & Pakistan. Turkey and Azerbaijan have shown support for Pakistan. We encourage travel to these countries only if necessary. Stay informed and make responsible decisions," read the statement on their website.

Surge in Indian Tourists to Azerbaijan

According to data from the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, the number of arrivals from India in 2024 reached 2,43,589—a 108% increase from 1,17,302 in 2023. In 2014, the number of Indian tourists was just 4,853, showing a massive rise over the past decade. In 2024, the average Indian tourist spent around 2,208 Azerbaijani Manat (roughly Rs 1.1 lakh).

India Blocks Turkish Media Account

India has also blocked the official X account of Turkish state broadcaster TRT World, accusing it of spreading misinformation.

What is Turkey famous for?

Turkey's unique appeal stems from its geographical location bridging Europe and Asia, its rich historical and cultural heritage, and its diverse natural landscapes. The country boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, vibrant cities like Istanbul, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a captivating destination for travelers. Turkey's coastline offers a variety of beaches, from the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the Black Sea.

Turkey produces a wide range of apple varieties, including Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, and Starking. Turkey is among the top apple-producing countries in the world. Its apples are exported to many countries due to their affordable pricing and consistent supply.

The city of Amasya, often called the “City of Apples,” has a long history of apple cultivation dating back to the Ottoman Empire. The Amasya apple is particularly prized for its aroma and sweetness.

In response to Turkey’s support for Pakistan, traders in Pune and several regions of Uttar Pradesh have decided to boycott Turkish apples.

What's special about Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan is known for a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique geography is famous for its modern architecture like the Flame Towers and the Heydar Aliyev Center, alongside the UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher). Baku blends ancient history with futuristic design, set against the Caspian Sea.

Azerbaijan has the largest number of mud volcanoes in the world—over 400. These natural formations attract geologists and tourists alike.

The name "Azerbaijan" itself means "Land of Fire". Yanar Dag is a natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside, one of the country's most iconic sights.

Azerbaijani carpets are renowned worldwide, and carpet weaving is considered a national art.

Why Turkey and Azerbaijan?

Turkey has historically maintained close ties with Pakistan and has often voiced support for Islamabad’s stance on Kashmir and related issues in international forums. Similarly, Azerbaijan has developed strong bilateral relations with Pakistan in recent years, particularly in defense and strategic sectors.