Air India suspends international services

 New Delhi, June 20, 2025:

In response to increased safety inspections and airspace disruptions, Air India will temporarily halt operations to three foreign cities and reduce flights on 16 international routes between June 21 and July 15. 

Citing the recent Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad on June 12 that claimed 241 lives as the catalyst, the airline announced a weekly reduction of 38 flights, or roughly 15% of its wide body international schedule. All services on the Amritsar–London Gatwick, Goa–London Gatwick, and Delhi–Nairobi routes will be suspended until mid-July.

N Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Air India, stated that the airline is working to restore operational stability and is conducting "enhanced pre flight safety checks." He emphasized that the choice is a voluntary but essential step to maintain safety regulations. The closure of Middle Eastern airspace in the wake of escalating tensions between Iran and Israel is also largely to blame for the disruption. 

In order to adjust to longer flight paths and guarantee crew limitations in accordance with regulations, Air India was forced to divert or reroute 16 flights in recent weeks and stand down others. Travelers who have been impacted have received assurances from Air India. "We apologize for the inconvenience caused," a spokesman said. Passengers who are impacted are being offered full refunds, free rescheduling, or alternative accommodations.

All 33 Dreamliners and some Boeing 777s were subject to thorough inspections by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Twenty-six Dreamliners have been approved for service thus far, while the others are undergoing extensive examination. "Cutting nearly 40 weekly flights is rare and shows how operational strain and safety priorities are being balanced," noted aviation expert Ritu Shah. 

The goal of these flight reductions is to provide schedule flexibility while thorough safety reviews are conducted. The safety of its passengers and crew is a top priority for Air India. After inspections are finished and access to vital airspace corridors is restored, the airline intends to update its schedule after July 15.

It is advised that travelers check flight status updates and get help directly from Air India.