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Air India has announced temporary cuts to multiple international routes between June and August as the airline faces rising operational costs linked to geopolitical tensions and high jet fuel prices.

The airline said airspace restrictions in certain regions and the continuing impact of the Iran conflict have forced longer flight rerouting, significantly increasing fuel consumption and operational expenses.

Several international routes affected

Air India confirmed temporary suspension of flights on the Delhi–Chicago and Mumbai–New York routes.

In Europe, the airline will reduce flight frequency from Delhi to Paris, Milan and Rome. Services between Delhi and Shanghai have also been suspended.

Despite the reductions, Air India stated that it will continue operating more than 1,200 international flights every month and aims to restore normal schedules once conditions improve.

Fuel prices and airspace restrictions hit operations

The airline has been dealing with mounting financial pressure due to sharply rising global fuel prices following the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The situation has been further complicated by Pakistan’s continued ban on Indian carriers using its airspace, forcing longer alternative routes and increasing flight durations.

Industry analysts say rerouting around restricted airspace has become a major challenge for several international airlines in recent months.

Leadership transition adds pressure

Air India is also undergoing a leadership transition following the resignation of former CEO Campbell Wilson in April amid continued losses and regulatory scrutiny.

Reports indicate that Singapore Airlines executive Vinod Kannan and Air India commercial head Nipun Aggarwal are among the leading candidates to take over the role.

Singapore Airlines currently holds nearly a 25 per cent stake in Air India, while the remaining ownership lies with Tata Sons.

More adjustments possible

The airline warned that further changes to its international network could be introduced if global disruptions continue over the coming months