India’s two largest airlines are preparing significant flight reductions after rising fuel prices and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East increased pressure on operating costs.

The planned cuts by Air India and IndiGo could affect thousands of weekly flights during one of the country’s busiest travel periods.

Air India And IndiGo Announce Capacity Cuts

Beginning on June 1, both Air India and IndiGo will reduce operations for an initial period of 90 days.

Air India plans to reduce summer flight capacity by approximately 15%, while IndiGo is expected to cut between 5% and 7% of services.

Together, the two airlines account for around 90% of India’s aviation market, meaning the reductions could affect passenger availability across numerous routes.

Fuel Prices Driving Airline Pressure

The primary reason behind the cuts is a sharp increase in aviation turbine fuel prices linked to instability and conflict across the Middle East.

According to airline representatives, fuel costs have risen dramatically in recent weeks, significantly increasing operating expenses.

Carriers are also facing additional pressure from currency fluctuations and broader cost increases across aviation operations.

Thousands Of Weekly Flights Could Disappear

India’s airlines operated approximately 25,610 weekly flights during the previous summer schedule.

Industry estimates suggest weekly operations could now fall to around 22,600 flights during the coming months.

IndiGo alone currently operates approximately 1,950 flights per day, meaning even relatively small percentage reductions could affect large numbers of passengers.

Demand Concerns Add Additional Pressure

Airlines are not only responding to rising costs but also to concerns that prolonged geopolitical uncertainty could weaken travel demand.

Carriers fear higher ticket prices caused by increased operating expenses may discourage some travellers if instability persists.

This creates additional pressure to adjust capacity before financial losses increase further.

Government Watching Airfares Closely

The reductions come shortly after Indian authorities removed temporary domestic airfare controls that had been in place since late 2024.

However, regulators have warned airlines that excessive price increases could result in renewed government intervention.

With fewer seats and higher costs now colliding, pressure is increasing on airlines to balance profitability while avoiding sharp fare increases for consumers.