Air India has announced a temporary revision of its flight schedule operated with narrow-body aircraft, a decision that will see thecarrier reduce 118 weekly frequencies across 19 routes and completely suspend services on another three destinations. The changes will be effective at least until July 15, 2025.

The initiative, described by the airline as a "voluntary" action, aims to "improve operational stability and minimize last-minute disruptions for passengers". Despite the cuts, which represent less than 5% of the carrier's narrow-body flight network, Air India will continue to operate nearly 600 daily flights, covering 120 domestic and short-haul international routes.

The destinations facing total suspension of service include connections between Bengaluru and Singapore, Pune and Singapore, and Mumbai-Bagdogra, each with seven weekly frequencies interrupted. Other key connections, such as those between Delhi and Bangalore, and between Delhi and Mumbai, will see a reduction in their usual frequencies.

This reorganization follows a previous reduction, at the beginning of June, of some long-haul international wide-body flights. Air India's decisions reflect a complex operational context influenced by several factors. Among these are strengthened global security inspections, intensified following the tragic incident involving its B-787/8 Dreamliner on June 12 (see AVIONEWS 1, 2 and related links). Persistent airspace restrictions in the Middle East (see AVIONEWS), due to escalating geopolitical tensions, and curfews imposed at some major international airports also contribute. The airline emphasized that these measures are essential to "maintain network stability".

Air India has expressed apologies to affected travellers and stated that it is proactively engaging with passengers. Customers will be offered various options, including the possibility to rebook on alternative flights, take advantage of free rescheduling, or request full refunds, depending on their preferences. The updated flight schedule is being gradually made available on the airline's website, which reiterated its commitment to restoring full operations "as soon as possible, always prioritizing the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft".