Indian airlines are set to operate around 3,000 fewer flights per week in the upcoming summer schedule, reflecting a sharp pullback in capacity amid rising costs and geopolitical uncertainty, according to the Hindustan Times.
The summer schedule, which runs from March 29 to October 31, is expected to see weekly flights fall to about 22,600, down from 25,610 in the same period last year, a reduction of roughly 12%.
Industry officials cited escalating fuel prices and foreign exchange costs, alongside concerns that demand could weaken if tensions in the Gulf persist. Airlines are increasingly cautious about expanding capacity in what one executive described as a “fluid operating environment”.
IndiGo, the country’s largest carrier, said it plans to operate nearly 2,000 daily domestic flights in April but warned that international capacity would depend on developments in the Middle East. The airline added that surging fuel and forex costs are already forcing fare increases, which could dampen demand.
Executives said carriers may cut frequencies, consolidate services or even ground aircraft if load factors weaken or fuel prices rise further.
The development coincides with India’s aviation ministry removing temporary fare caps, while cautioning airlines against excessive pricing.