West Asia Crisis: Air India to cut domestic flights by 22% amid rising fuel prices
Air India will temporarily reduce nearly 22% of its domestic flights between June and August as soaring fuel prices continue to impact operations. Passengers may face schedule changes and route adjustments.
Air India to cut domestic flights by 22% (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: Air India has announced a temporary reduction in domestic flight operations between June and August 2026, citing the continued rise in fuel prices and growing operational costs. The airline said it will rationalise services on select domestic routes during the period.
According to reports, the move is expected to impact nearly 20-22 per cent of Air India’s domestic operations. The airline currently runs around 4,400 weekly flights, including approximately 3,600 domestic and 800 international services.
The decision comes shortly after the airline confirmed cuts to nearly 27 per cent of its international flights for the same period.
Fuel Prices Continue To Pressure Airline Industry
The airline stated that the rationalisation exercise has become necessary due to elevated fuel costs, which have significantly increased operating expenses across several routes.
Air India to temporarily cut nearly 22% of its domestic flights between June and August amid soaring fuel prices and rising operational costs. Passengers affected will be offered alternate flights, refunds or date changes.#AirIndia#FlightNews#FuelPriceHike#Aviationpic.twitter.com/FWO1PYshqR
In an official statement, Air India said it would temporarily reduce frequencies on selected domestic sectors while closely monitoring demand and operating conditions. The airline added that services may be restored once market conditions stabilise and operational costs improve.
Rising global crude oil prices and recent increases in aviation fuel rates have put additional pressure on airlines already dealing with high maintenance and operational expenses.
Passengers To Receive Alternate Options
Air India assured passengers that those affected by schedule changes would receive assistance from the airline. Customers impacted by the revised operations will be offered options including alternate flight arrangements, complimentary date changes, or full refunds depending on eligibility.
The carrier said proactive communication would be maintained with passengers regarding any changes to flight schedules.
Domestic Aviation Sector Facing Challenges
The reduction highlights the broader pressure being faced by India’s aviation sector as fuel prices continue to rise. Aviation turbine fuel remains one of the largest operational expenses for airlines, directly affecting profitability and route planning.
Industry observers believe airlines may continue reviewing capacity and frequencies if fuel costs remain elevated in the coming months.
Despite the temporary cuts, Air India said it remains committed to maintaining connectivity while balancing operational efficiency during the high-cost period.
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