New Delhi: Air India has announced a major reduction in its international flight operations, cutting around 400 flights across Europe, North America and Asia till August amid rising fuel costs, airspace restrictions and mounting operational pressure.
The airline said several international routes will either see reduced frequency or temporary suspension between June and August as the aviation sector grapples with the impact of the ongoing West Asia conflict and soaring aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices.
Fuel Prices and Airspace Restrictions Behind Cuts
According to reports, restrictions in West Asian airspace due to the Iran conflict have forced airlines to operate longer routes, significantly increasing fuel consumption and operating expenses.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson had earlier informed employees that many long-haul international services had become financially unviable because of sharply rising fuel costs and rerouted flight paths.
Industry bodies have also warned that Indian airlines are under severe stress as ATF prices have surged dramatically in recent weeks.
Flights to US, Europe and Asia Impacted
The cuts will affect routes connecting India with destinations in North America, Europe, Australia and parts of Asia. Reports said some services to cities including Chicago, New York, Toronto, Singapore, Shanghai and other destinations have either been suspended temporarily or witnessed frequency reductions.
Air India, however, clarified that it continues to operate a majority of its international network and has not cancelled all overseas flights, contrary to rumours circulating on social media.
Airline Offers Refunds and Rebooking Options
The airline said affected passengers are being informed in advance and are being offered alternate flights, complimentary rescheduling and full refunds wherever applicable.
Despite the temporary reduction, Air India said it expects to maintain over 1,200 international flights every month and hopes to restore normal operations once the geopolitical and fuel price situation stabilises.