A leading airline has revealed plans to reduce flight services to six European destinations this year.
Air India is adjusting its international flight operations until August due to the surge in jet fuel prices and ongoing airspace constraints that are making certain routes difficult to sustain.
Tensions between the US and Iran escalated following coordinated strikes launched by the US and Israel on key Iranian targets in late February. In response, Iran retaliated by targeting sites across the Middle East and disrupting the crucial trade route of the Strait of Hormuz.
The cutbacks may affect around 100 daily flights, primarily impacting routes connecting India and North America. The decision comes as the aviation industry faces broader financial challenges.
In a recent communication with the government, the airline emphasized the mounting financial pressures arising from high fuel expenses and persistent airspace limitations, warning of significant operational strains.
The reduction in flights is driven by two main factors: rising fuel costs and extended flight paths. The sharp increase in jet fuel prices has raised the operational costs of long-haul flights.
Additionally, airspace restrictions related to the conflict in West Asia have forced airlines to avoid certain regions, resulting in longer flight distances for many international routes.
The affected European cities include Copenhagen, Milan, Paris, Rome, Vienna, and Zurich.