Air India has announced a significant rationalisation of its operations, reducing up to 22% of its domestic flight services amid rising fuel costs and ongoing operational pressures. The move comes as the loss-making carrier seeks to manage financial strain while adjusting capacity across both domestic and international networks.

According to sources, the airline currently operates around 4,400 weekly flights, including approximately 3,600 domestic and 800 international services. The planned reduction is expected to affect select domestic routes, with frequency cuts estimated between 20% and 22% during the June–August 2026 operational period.

In an official statement, Air India said the adjustments are part of a broader schedule optimisation plan linked to previously announced changes in select international services. The airline noted that certain domestic routes have been temporarily rationalised in response to sustained high fuel prices and associated cost pressures impacting overall operations.

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The carrier added that it will continue to monitor demand patterns and operating conditions closely, with the intention of restoring frequencies once market conditions stabilise. It also emphasised that the reductions are temporary and operational in nature, rather than a permanent downsizing of its domestic network.

Air India further stated that passengers affected by schedule changes will be provided assistance, including rebooking on alternative flights, complimentary date modifications, or full refunds where applicable. The airline said its priority remains minimising inconvenience to travellers while maintaining operational viability under challenging cost conditions.

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