Air India will restore its complete Middle East flight network from the winter schedule as geopolitical disruptions ease, Air India Express Chairman and Air India Chief Commercial and Transformation Officer Nipun Aggarwal said. He added that most flights affected by recent operational challenges have already returned to sale, and the airline expects to maintain the expanded network if conditions continue improving. Aggarwal said the airline has already redeployed much of its Middle East network and is preparing to return to normal operations.

"Most of those flights are already on sale. The network has already been deployed and, if the situation continues to improve the way it is, we should be able to maintain that network," he said. He explained that the main challenge faced by Air India during the recent tensions in the Middle East was not a decline in passenger demand but restrictions caused by temporary airspace closures. According to him, demand for India-Middle East routes remains strong due to the large Indian diaspora living and working across Gulf countries.

"The demand here is very strong because of the large Indian diaspora. As long as airports are open, airspace is available and we can operate safely, we will continue deploying capacity. Our biggest constraint has been the ability to fly, not passenger demand," Aggarwal said. The airline executive said Air India regularly monitors geopolitical developments and conducts detailed operational risk assessments before making decisions regarding flight operations. These evaluations are carried out in coordination with airports, aviation authorities and local stakeholders to ensure passenger safety.

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"This is a very dynamic situation. We continuously assess the risks and adapt accordingly. As long as we can operate safely, we will continue to deploy capacity," Aggarwal said. He added that the airline remains in constant communication with regional authorities while reviewing the situation and adjusting operations whenever necessary. The Middle East remains one of the most important international aviation markets for Indian carriers due to extensive travel links, business connections and the presence of millions of Indian expatriates in the region.

Routes connecting India with Gulf countries contribute significantly to international passenger traffic, making stable flight operations a priority for airlines. Aggarwal also discussed the impact of rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices amid continuing geopolitical uncertainty. He said airlines have limited ability to protect themselves from external economic factors, as fuel costs are influenced by global market conditions and can significantly affect operational expenses. Fuel prices remain one of the biggest cost pressures for airlines, often influencing ticket prices and profitability.

Any increase in ATF rates can create challenges for carriers attempting to maintain affordable fares while managing rising expenses. Despite these challenges, Air India remains focused on rebuilding its international operations and strengthening global connectivity. The restoration of the Middle East network is expected to benefit passengers travelling for work, tourism, business and family commitments. The airline will continue monitoring regional developments before making further operational decisions. With improved stability in the region, Air India aims to gradually restore its full schedule while ensuring safety remains the priority for passengers and crew.

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