Air India is considering restarting some international routes that were previously suspended due to tensions in the Middle East.
According to an internal memo from CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson, easing geopolitical tensions and falling jet fuel prices have created conditions for a possible revival of affected services.
The airline had reduced several international operations between June and August after airspace restrictions and high fuel costs made long-haul flights to Europe and the United States more expensive and operationally challenging.
Lower Fuel Prices and Open Airspace Drive Possible Route Restorations
The situation in the Middle East has reportedly become more stable, allowing more airspace to reopen for commercial flights.
At the same time, jet fuel prices have declined, reducing operational pressure on airlines.
In his memo, Campbell Wilson noted that if these favorable conditions continue, Air India may reverse some of the earlier schedule cuts.
However, he also emphasized that the situation remains uncertain and could change depending on geopolitical developments.
The airline clarified that earlier schedule adjustments were made to avoid last-minute disruptions and to maintain stable operations.
Despite the changes, Air India continues to operate more than 1,200 international flights every month across five continents.
Fleet Expansion and Network Growth Plans
Along with potential route restorations, Air India is also expanding its fleet and network.
The airline is expected to induct eight new or refurbished wide-body aircraft this year.
One Boeing 787-8 is currently being sent for retrofitting, while a new Boeing 787-9 is expected to arrive in India soon.
On the network side, Air India has recently launched four weekly non-stop flights between Mumbai and Tokyo Haneda, adding to its existing daily Delhi–Haneda service.
Air India Express is also preparing to expand its international footprint further.
It is set to become the first airline to operate a direct passenger flight from Navi Mumbai International Airport to Abu Dhabi.
The airline will also introduce new routes including Pune–Amritsar, as well as direct services from Guwahati to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Strong Operational Performance Reported
June has been reported as one of Air India’s strongest operational months.
The airline achieved an overall on-time performance of 86%, while domestic flights reached a record 90% punctuality rate.
According to Wilson, this improvement is supported by better aircraft health, improved systems, and stronger operational discipline.
However, he noted that the temporarily reduced schedule and favorable weather conditions also contributed to the performance.
Air India’s recent developments suggest a phase of recovery and expansion, with the airline balancing operational stability with renewed international growth opportunities.
