New Delhi: Air India has announced a temporary 15 percent reduction in its international widebody operations, citing ongoing safety inspections and operational challenges following the fatal crash of Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad.
The curtailed schedule, effective immediately, will remain in place until at least mid-July, the airline said on Wednesday.
In a statement, the Tata Group-owned carrier said the move aims to ensure operational stability, improve efficiency, and reduce last-minute inconvenience for passengers.
The airline confirmed that at least 83 international flights had been canceled over the last six days due to a combination of internal and external factors.
“The cuts will be implemented between now and June 20 and will continue thereafter until at least mid-July,” the airline said.
Air India to reduce international services
on widebody aircraft by 15%
Move to ensure stability of operations, better efficiency and minimise inconvenience to passengersAir India remains in mourning on the tragic loss of 241 passengers and crew members aboard flight AI171. Our…
— Air India (@airindia) June 18, 2025
Air India also addressed the recent crash of Flight AI171, which resulted in the deaths of 241 passengers and crew. Describing the loss as devastating, the airline said it remains in mourning and stands in solidarity with the families affected by the tragedy.
Air India, in coordination with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Government of Gujarat, has deployed support teams in Ahmedabad. Tata Group volunteers have been assisting families with hospital arrangements and transportation of mortal remains.
Following directives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India has undertaken an ‘Enhanced Safety Inspection’ of its Boeing 787-8/9 fleet. Of the 33 aircraft, 26 have been cleared for service, while the rest are expected to complete inspections in the coming days.
In our hearts and in our purpose. pic.twitter.com/bUOgc1D9BZ
— Air India (@airindia) June 19, 2025
The airline also confirmed it will expand precautionary checks to its Boeing 777 fleet. Air India added that it will continue to fully cooperate with the DGCA, Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to ensure the highest safety standards.
Air India cited a range of external issues contributing to the disruptions, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, airspace curfews in Europe and East Asia, and a cautious approach from its engineering and flight operations teams.
Affected passengers will be informed in advance and offered rebooking options at no additional cost or full refunds. A revised schedule for international operations from June 20 will be announced shortly.
