Here’s your content rewritten in a simple, engaging, and reader-friendly format:
Fewer Flights This Summer: DGCA Cuts Domestic Schedule
India’s aviation sector is set to see fewer flights this summer.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced that airlines will operate around 23,049 domestic flights per week from March 29 to October 24.
This is about 10% lower than last year, when airlines were running 25,610 weekly flights.
A total of 9 airlines are part of this summer schedule, including Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, and others.
Why Are Flights Decreasing This Year?
The main reason behind the drop is global uncertainty, especially due to tensions in the Middle East.
The situation changed after the Iran conflict started on February 28. Many Gulf countries closed their airspace, which forced airlines to cancel or reroute flights.
According to reports:
Nearly 75% of flights to Gulf countries were cancelled
Around 2,400 flights were cancelled by major airlines
This has had a big impact because the Middle East is a key market for Indian airlines.
Middle East Routes Are Very Important
The Middle East plays a huge role in India’s aviation sector.
UAE alone saw over 12 million passengers from India in 2025
Saudi Arabia had over 2.8 million passengers
Countries like Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar are also major routes
Airlines depend heavily on this region:
IndiGo: 35–45% of international capacity
Air India: 30–35%
SpiceJet: around 40%
Akasa Air: nearly 80%
Because of disruptions here, airlines are facing major challenges.
Airlines Facing Double Trouble
Airlines are currently dealing with two big problems at the same time.
First, flight disruptions due to restricted airspace.
Flights now have to take longer routes, which increases travel time and fuel usage.
Second, rising costs:
Jet fuel prices have increased
The rupee has weakened by about 7%
Expenses like aircraft leasing and maintenance have become costlier
Although airlines have increased fuel charges, it is not enough to cover all the extra costs.
What This Means for Passengers
For travelers, this situation may lead to some changes:
Fewer flight options on certain routes
Higher ticket prices
Frequent changes in flight timings, especially international ones
Experts say the situation may change further depending on global conditions, fuel prices, and currency movement.
Final Takeaway
While the official schedule shows a 10% drop in flights, the actual number may change in the coming weeks.
Airlines are closely watching global developments, and any further changes in the Middle East situation could impact flights and fares even more.
