New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): India’s aviation sector is beginning to feel the strain of the escalating crisis in West Asia, with soaring crude oil prices and airspace restrictions forcing airlines to rethink their operations. In response to the mounting pressure, Air India has announced a temporary reduction in its international flight schedule for the upcoming summer months.
The airline confirmed on Wednesday that nearly 400 international services will be withdrawn every month between June and August 2026. The decision comes as carriers across the globe grapple with rising aviation turbine fuel prices triggered by instability in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
According to the airline, the cuts will affect select routes connecting India with destinations in North America, Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia. While several services will be suspended, others are expected to witness frequency changes during the three-month period.
Air India stated that the move is intended to ensure greater operational reliability and minimise unexpected disruptions for passengers. The carrier said maintaining a stable schedule had become increasingly difficult because of restricted air corridors and sharply elevated fuel expenses.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, the airline said the temporary adjustments were necessary due to “continued airspace restrictions” and historically high jet fuel costs impacting international operations. The company, however, assured travellers that it would continue operating more than 1,200 overseas flights every month and retain connectivity across major global destinations.
The latest announcement highlights the growing financial stress within India’s aviation industry. Earlier this year, the Federation of Indian Airlines — whose members include Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet — reportedly approached the government over the unprecedented increase in fuel costs. In its communication dated April 26, the industry body warned that airlines were under severe pressure and cautioned that operational sustainability was becoming increasingly challenging.
Industry experts believe prolonged geopolitical instability in West Asia could further impact airline profitability worldwide, especially for carriers heavily dependent on long-haul international routes. With fuel accounting for a significant share of airline operating expenses, any sustained rise in crude oil prices is expected to place additional burden on ticket pricing and route planning in the months ahead.
