New Delhi: Air India has announced a major reduction in its domestic flight operations, citing soaring aviation fuel prices and mounting operational pressures linked to the ongoing geopolitical crisis in West Asia. According to reports, the Tata Group-owned airline will cut up to 22% of its domestic services in two months.
The move comes weeks af
ter the carrier reduced several international operations due to rising fuel expenses and longer flight routes caused by airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East. Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), which accounts for nearly 40 per cent of airline operating costs, has witnessed a sharp increase amid disruptions in global crude oil supplies.
Reports suggest that the airline is undertaking a temporary “rationalisation” of routes and frequencies in an effort to manage costs during a period of economic strain. While specific routes affected by the domestic cuts have not yet been officially disclosed, the reduction is expected to impact passenger availability during the peak travel season.
Air India has, according to a NDTV report, stated that the services could be restored once fuel prices stabilise and operational conditions improve. The airline has already been facing financial challenges, with reports indicating record annual losses exceeding $2 billion in the last fiscal year.