Air India will reduce several international flight operations until July 2026 as it grapples with rising jet fuel prices and ongoing airspace restrictions linked to the Iran conflict, the carrier confirmed.
The airline said the move is part of efforts to manage rising operational costs, with fuel prices surging in recent weeks and flight routes becoming longer due to restricted airspace in parts of West Asia. Industry sources said certain long-haul routes have become less viable as aircraft are forced onto extended paths, leading to higher fuel consumption and longer travel times.
The reduction will affect select routes and frequencies rather than a complete suspension of international services. Air India is expected to review the situation in July depending on fuel price trends and geopolitical developments.
The cuts come as global carriers face mounting pressure from volatile energy markets and disruptions to traditional flight corridors. Spirit Airlines is winding down operations on similar pressures, while Lufthansa, Air France and other European carriers have trimmed schedules as jet fuel approaches USD 180 a barrel — more than double pre-war levels.
Air India operates Colombo–Mumbai and Colombo–Delhi routes used heavily by Indian diaspora and business travellers shuttling between the two countries. Reduced frequencies on those corridors could squeeze seat availability and push fares higher into the Sri Lankan summer holiday period.
