Air India has announced a temporary reduction in flight frequencies on select domestic routes between June and August 2026, citing the sustained impact of high fuel prices on airline operations.

In an official statement issued on Wednesday, an Air India spokesperson said the airline has “temporarily rationalised operations” across certain domestic sectors following previously announced adjustments to some international services during the same period.

The airline stated that the decision was taken due to continued pressure from elevated aviation fuel costs, which have affected operational efficiency and scheduling across its network.

“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,” the airline said.

According to the statement, Air India will continue monitoring passenger demand, market conditions and operational requirements before restoring normal flight frequencies.

“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,” the spokesperson added.

The airline clarified that passengers affected by schedule changes would receive support through alternative travel arrangements, complimentary date modifications or full refunds wherever applicable.

“Passengers impacted by these changes will be proactively assisted with re-accommodation on alternative flights, complimentary date changes, or full refunds,” the airline said.

While Air India did not immediately release the complete list of affected domestic routes, aviation industry sources indicated that frequency reductions may impact certain metro and high-traffic sectors where airlines are attempting to optimise fleet deployment amid rising operating expenses.

The development comes at a time when global aviation companies continue facing pressure from fluctuating crude oil prices and higher aviation turbine fuel (ATF) costs. Fuel remains one of the largest operational expenses for airlines, often accounting for a substantial portion of total running costs.

Earlier, Air India had already announced temporary adjustments to selected international routes for the June-August period as part of broader operational planning. The Tata Group-owned airline has been undergoing a major transformation and fleet expansion programme since its acquisition from the Government of India in 2022.

In recent months, the carrier has also been focused on aircraft refurbishment, network restructuring and expansion of international connectivity while managing supply chain constraints affecting aircraft deliveries and maintenance schedules globally.

The latest operational adjustment comes ahead of the busy summer and monsoon travel season, when domestic air travel demand traditionally remains strong across India.

Industry experts note that airlines globally are increasingly balancing operational efficiency with volatile fuel costs and aircraft availability challenges. Several international carriers have also revised schedules or temporarily reduced capacity in recent months due to similar economic pressures.

Air India said it remains committed to minimising inconvenience to passengers and restoring normal operations once conditions improve.

Air India Routes | Business Upturn

Air India cuts domestic flight frequencies till august amid rising fuel cost pressure