27 May,2026 02:18 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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Air India will reduce up to 22 per cent of its domestic flights amid rising operational costs due to high fuel prices, sources told PTI.
The sources told PTI that the loss-making airline, which is facing financial headwinds, has reduced international flights by around 27 per cent.
Air India operates around 4,400 weekly flights. Out of them, about 3,600 are domestic and 800 are international services.
"In continuation of our previously announced adjustments to select international services between June and August 2026, we have temporarily rationalised operations on certain domestic routes during the same period, with a reduction in frequencies on select routes," Air India said in a statement on Wednesday.
The sources told PTI that 20-22 per cent of the domestic flights would be reduced.
The airline said these adjustments are driven by the sustained impact of high fuel prices on overall operations.
"Air India will continue to monitor demand and operating conditions closely, with a view to restoring frequencies as conditions stabilise," it said in the statement.
The carrier also said that passengers impacted by these changes will be proactively assisted with re-accommodation on alternative flights, complimentary date changes, or full refunds, as applicable, reported PTI.
Air India on Wednesday announced a temporary rationalisation of its international flight schedule from June to August 2026 due to continued airspace restrictions over certain regions and record-high jet fuel prices that have affected the commercial viability of several operations.
The national carrier said the adjustments are aimed at ensuring network stability and minimising last-minute disruptions for passengers. Despite the cuts, Air India will continue to operate more than 1,200 international flights every month, maintaining a robust global presence across five continents. This includes 33 weekly flights to North America, 47 to Europe, 57 to the United Kingdom, eight to Australia, 158 to the Far East, Southeast Asia and SAARC regions, and seven to Mauritius in Africa.
Air India stated it will proactively support affected passengers by offering re-accommodation on alternative flights, free date changes, or full refunds. Customers can reach out to the airline's 24x7 contact centre or use digital channels for assistance.
The airline added that it is working closely with regulators, airport authorities and industry partners to restore full capacity at the earliest. However, it may make further adjustments if the challenging operating environment persists.
This rationalisation comes as Air India continues its fleet expansion and network modernisation under the Tata Group ownership.
(With inputs from PTI)
