Has Air India cancelled all international flights until July 2026? Here’s the truth behind the viral claim
Air India has not canceled all its international operations. Instead, the airline has temporarily reduced or adjusted its services on selected overseas routes due to rising operational costs, geopolitical tensions in West Asia and increasing pressure on profitability.
The airline continues to operate flights to major destinations in Europe, North America, Australia and Asia, but some sectors are currently experiencing reduced frequency and schedule changes.
Why Is Confusion Spreading on Air India’s International Flights?
The speculation appears to have arisen following reports suggesting that Air India will scale back parts of its international network by June and July 2026.
According to reports, the move is linked to rising aviation turbine fuel prices, restriction of airspace routes due to the ongoing West Asian conflict, and increased operational expenses affecting long-haul flights.
However, only part of Air India’s global network was affected.
Of the more than 1,000 domestic and international operations the airline operates daily, approximately 100 flights may experience temporary interruption, cancellation or rescheduling during this period.
Air India Continues Flights to Major Global Destinations
Despite the temporary disruptions, Air India has not announced any general cancellation of its international services and continues to operate flights to many major cities around the world.
The airline continues its services in the following important destinations:
- Europe
- North America
- Australia
- Southeast Asia
- Middle East
- East Asia
However, travelers may experience fewer weekly flights in certain long-haul sectors as the airline works to manage costs and operational challenges.
Why Is Air India Reducing Its International Operations?
According to a report published by ANI on May 8, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson informed employees that many international routes are becoming increasingly difficult to operate profitably.
The airline is facing pressure for the following reasons:
- Sharp increases in aviation turbine fuel prices
- Airspace restrictions in parts of West Asia
- Longer flight times due to rerouted corridors
- Increased crew and operational expenses
Flights that previously used shorter air routes are now being diverted due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Some rerouted trips reportedly took 60 to 90 minutes longer than usual, significantly increasing fuel consumption and operating costs.
Which Air India Routes Are Most Affected?
Frequency is reportedly reduced on many long-distance routes from Delhi and Mumbai.
Routes believed to be most affected include services for:
- London
- in frankfurt
- Paris
- new York
- toronto
- Sydney
- Melbourne
Some international sectors, including Delhi-Vienna and Mumbai-Osaka, were reportedly temporarily suspended.
Meanwhile, it is reported that frequency decreases ranging from 15 to 30 percent may be seen on routes to cities such as Frankfurt, Chicago, Vancouver, Melbourne and Singapore.
Air India Extends Suspension of Tel Aviv Flights
Separately, Air India has extended the suspension of its Tel Aviv-Delhi operations until the end of June due to continued uncertainty in the region.
A senior executive who oversees the airline’s Israel operations confirmed the development to PTI.
The airline had previously suspended flights on this route until the end of May, and then decided to extend the suspension further.
Although the ceasefire between the United States and Iran has largely been in place for some time, instability in parts of West Asia continues to impact international aviation operations. Many airlines around the world have either suspended or limited their flights to Tel Aviv.
Apart from Israeli carriers such as El Al, Israir, Arkia and Air Haifa, only a limited number of international airlines have resumed operations on this route.
Indian Community in Israel Faces Travel Challenges
The ongoing suspension of Air India flights has created difficulties for more than 40,000 Indians living in Israel.
While many want to travel to India for family visits, professional commitments or personal reasons, others want to leave the region temporarily due to the ongoing uncertainty.
Limited flight options have also led to significantly higher travel costs, creating financial pressure for Indian workers who worry about losing a large chunk of their savings on expensive airfares.
Input from agencies
