Air India to cut international widebody flights by 15% amid crisis response and safety overhaul

In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI 171, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew, Air India has announced a temporary 15% reduction in international services operated by its widebody aircraft fleet. The move, described as both precautionary and strategic, is aimed at restoring operational stability, ensuring passenger safety, and improving efficiency as the airline navigates a difficult period.

Air India to reduce international services
on widebody aircraft by 15%
Move to ensure stability of operations, better efficiency and minimise inconvenience to passengers

Air India remains in mourning on the tragic loss of 241 passengers and crew members aboard flight AI171. Our…

— Air India (@airindia)

Air India to reduce international services
on widebody aircraft by 15%
Move to ensure stability of operations, better efficiency and minimise inconvenience to passengers

Air India remains in mourning on the tragic loss of 241 passengers and crew members aboard flight AI171. Our…

— Air India (@airindia) June 18, 2025

">June 18, 2025

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Air India remains in mourning for the devastating loss and has extended full support to the families of those who perished in the crash. In close coordination with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and the Government of Gujarat, Air India and the Tata Group have deployed volunteers in Ahmedabad to assist the families with hospital coordination and arrangements for the return of the mortal remains of the deceased.

Amid investigations by the DGCA, AAIB, and other regulatory authorities, enhanced safety inspections have been mandated across the airline’s fleet. Out of the 33 Boeing 787 aircraft operated by Air India, 26 have already cleared rigorous safety checks, with the remaining under inspection. As an additional measure, Air India will now begin enhanced inspections on its Boeing 777 fleet.

The airline cited ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, night airspace curfews in Europe and East Asia, and a cautious approach by engineering and cockpit crews as contributing factors behind recent operational disruptions. These have led to 83 international flight cancellations over the past six days.

To manage these disruptions and avoid further passenger inconvenience, Air India will implement a 15% reduction in its widebody international operations between now and mid-July. A revised international flight schedule will be released starting 20 June 2025.

Air India has apologised for the inconvenience and assured affected passengers of rebooking options, full refunds, or free rescheduling. The airline reaffirmed that passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority, and with collective support, it is committed to emerging stronger from this tragedy.