Epaper
Air India is set to reduce up to 100 flights a day till July, with a major impact on its North America routes, according to a report by The Economic Times.
The move comes as rising fuel prices and operational challenges are putting pressure on long-haul flights. Routes connecting India with cities in the United States and Canada are becoming more expensive due to higher jet fuel costs and longer flying times.
Flight durations have increased because of restricted airspace in parts of Europe and West Asia, forcing airlines to take longer routes. This has led to higher fuel consumption, increased crew hours, and rising overall costs.
North America remains a key market for Air India, driven by strong demand from business travellers, students, and the Indian diaspora. However, the current cuts are seen as a temporary adjustment rather than a long-term withdrawal.
Industry experts say many airlines around the world are making similar changes to control costs and manage operations better amid ongoing geopolitical issues.
The reduction in flights is also expected to help Air India improve aircraft availability and on-time performance, which has been a challenge for several global carriers.
For passengers, this could mean fewer direct flights, longer travel times, and possibly higher ticket prices due to reduced capacity. Travellers may need to plan early or consider alternative routes.
Despite these changes, demand for travel between India and North America remains strong. However, limited seats could lead to tighter availability, especially during peak seasons.
The decision reflects a broader trend in global aviation, where airlines are focusing more on efficiency and cost control rather than expansion, as uncertainties continue in the industry.
