Air India Reduces International Widebody Flights by 15% Due to Operational Challenges

Air India has announced a temporary reduction in its international flights by 15% until mid-July. This decision comes as the airline, owned by Tata Group, faces operational challenges due to increased safety inspections and the closure of Iranian airspace. The disruptions follow a tragic crash involving a Boeing 787-8 aircraft bound for London Gatwick from Ahmedabad on June 12.

The airline has experienced significant disruptions, with 83 international flights cancelled in the past six days. These issues are compounded by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and night curfews in European and East Asian airspaces. Air India is taking a cautious approach, with engineering staff and pilots ensuring safety remains a priority.

Operational Adjustments Amid Safety Concerns

To maintain operational stability and minimise passenger inconvenience, Air India will reduce its widebody aircraft services by 15% over the next few weeks. The exact number of affected flights is yet to be determined. On June 12, Air India had planned to operate 90 flights using widebody planes.

The airline operates three types of widebody aircraft: Boeing 787-8/9, Boeing 777, and A350. The cuts will be in effect from now until at least mid-July. This measure aims to increase reserve aircraft availability for unforeseen disruptions.

Passenger Support and Apologies

Air India apologised to passengers affected by these changes, promising advance notifications and efforts to accommodate them on alternative flights. Passengers can reschedule their travel at no extra cost or opt for a full refund. The airline expressed gratitude for the continued support from passengers, regulatory authorities, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The airline emphasised that these reductions are necessary due to the recent tragic event and external factors. They aim to restore operational stability and reduce last-minute passenger inconvenience. Air India and Air India Express together operate over 1,000 flights daily.

Ongoing Investigations and Safety Inspections

Investigations into the aircraft accident are ongoing. On June 13, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered enhanced safety inspections of Air India's Boeing 787-8/9 planes following the Ahmedabad crash. Out of 33 aircraft, inspections have been completed on 26, which are now cleared for service. The remaining inspections will conclude soon.

Tata Sons and Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran apologised for the crash earlier in the day. The airline is committed to re-establishing passenger confidence through these challenging times.

With inputs from PTI