Air India cancels flights to 6 European airports until September

A major airline has announced it is scaling back flights to six European cities this year. Air India is set to scale back its international flight schedule through August, as soaring jet fuel prices and continuing airspace restrictions render several routes challenging to operate. The US and Iran have been locked in conflict since February 28, when the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes on several key Iranian targets. Iran retaliated by hitting sites across the Middle East and shutting the vital Strait of Hormuz trade route. The reductions could impact up to 100 flights daily, with routes between India and North America bearing the brunt of the cuts. The decision arrives amidst broader financial pressures across the aviation industry. In a recent correspondence to the government, the airline highlighted escalating financial strain stemming from elevated fuel costs and persistent airspace limitations, cautioning of severe stress throughout operations. Two primary factors are behind the cutbacks: increased fuel costs and extended routes. Jet fuel prices have climbed steeply, driving up the expense of operating long-haul flights. Simultaneously, airspace restrictions connected to the West Asia conflict have compelled airlines to bypass certain regions, adding considerable distance to numerous international routes. Copenhagen Delhi – Copenhagen: four weekly services reduced to three weekly services (June 1 - August 31) Milan Delhi – Milan: five weekly services reduced to four weekly services (June 1 - August 31) Paris Delhi – Paris: 14 weekly services reduced to seven weekly services (June 1 - August 31) Rome Delhi – Rome: four weekly services reduced to three weekly services (June 1 - August 31) Vienna Delhi – Vienna: four weekly services reduced to three weekly services (June 1 - August 31) Zurich Delhi – Zurich: four weekly services reduced to three weekly services (June 1 - August 31)