US Grants Air India Expanded Permit to Operate Passenger, Cargo and Charter Flights

March 7, 2026

The United States has granted expanded flight operating rights to Air India, allowing the airline to run cargo and chartered flights in addition to its passenger services between India and the US. The decision was taken by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) after completing its regulatory review of Air India’s application.

The amended permit authorizes the airline to operate scheduled passenger, cargo, and mail services, as well as charter operations linking the two countries. The approval is seen as a significant development for Air India as it seeks to expand its global network and strengthen connectivity between India and North America.

According to the official order, the amended permit became effective from March 2, 2026, after the mandatory review period ended without any objections from stakeholders or regulatory authorities.

What the expanded permit allows

Under the new authorization, Air India can operate a broader range of aviation services involving the United States. The permit allows the airline to conduct scheduled international transportation of passengers, cargo, and mail between the two countries.

The airline can also run charter flights carrying passengers, cargo, or mail between India and the US. In addition, charter operations between the US and a third country are permitted, provided they form part of a continuous operation connected to India.

Another important provision allows Air India to operate flights from points beyond India via Indian cities and intermediate stops to destinations in the United States and beyond, giving the airline more flexibility in route planning and international operations.

Regulatory review and approval process

The permit was issued after the US Department of Transportation concluded its review of Air India’s application. Officials said the department had earlier invited objections from interested parties, allowing a 21-day window for comments or opposition to the proposed decision.

Since no objections were filed during the review period, the department finalized its earlier findings and granted the expanded permit to the airline. The order includes specific operating conditions that Air India must follow while providing services involving US destinations.

Under US aviation law, permits issued to foreign airlines are subject to review by the US President or a designated official. If no objection is raised during the review period, the decision automatically comes into effect.

Compliance with US aviation rules mandatory

As part of the authorization, Air India must comply with all US aviation safety and security regulations while operating flights to and from the country. These include rules and oversight by agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The airline must also maintain valid authorization from the Government of India and continue meeting international aviation safety standards.

Officials stated that the department was satisfied that Air India is financially and operationally qualified to perform the proposed services.

Boost for India-US aviation connectivity

The decision is expected to strengthen air connectivity between India and the United States, which is one of the busiest long-haul aviation markets in the world due to strong business, tourism, and diaspora links.

With expanded cargo and charter rights, Air India will be able to increase freight capacity, support trade logistics, and operate special charter services for passengers or cargo when required.

Industry observers say the move could also help the airline improve its competitive position in international aviation while supporting the growing demand for travel and cargo movement between the two countries.