Air India will discontinue its nonstop flights between New Delhi and Washington, D.C., starting September 1, as the carrier struggles with both aircraft availability and geopolitical hurdles.
The decision comes as the airline works through a $400 million fleet modernization program, which is temporarily grounding several of its older Boeing jets. At the same time, the ongoing closure of Pakistani airspace continues to complicate long-haul routes, forcing detours that increase fuel costs and flight times.
Pakistan Airspace Ban Adds Heavy Costs
Pakistan has barred Indian aircraft from using its airspace since early this year, following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that triggered the most severe military escalation between the two countries in decades. India has accused Pakistan of backing the attackers, a claim Islamabad denies.
For Air India, the closure has meant rerouting transatlantic flights through longer paths over the Middle East and Europe. Reuters estimates the disruption could cost the carrier up to $600 million in a year—a hit made worse by its already stretched resources.
Alternative Options for Travelers
Passengers affected by the Washington route suspension will be offered rebookings on partner airlines, including Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Options will route travelers through other U.S. hubs such as New York, Newark, Chicago, or San Francisco before connecting to Washington.
A Difficult Year for the Flag Carrier
The suspension is yet another challenge in a turbulent year for Air India. In June, a crash in Ahmedabad claimed 260 lives, prompting regulatory scrutiny and public criticism over the airline’s safety and maintenance standards. With the retrofit program removing planes from service and operational costs climbing due to airspace restrictions, industry analysts say the carrier’s international network could face further adjustments before year’s end.
