NEW DELHI, INDIA – August 12, 2025 – Air India announced today the suspension of its direct flight services between New Delhi and Washington, D.C., effective September 1, 2025. The decision is a result of a dual challenge: a temporary shortfall in its fleet due to a $400 million retrofit program for its aging Boeing aircraft and the ongoing closure of Pakistani airspace.
Air India suspends Delhi-Washington flights due to plane shortages, Pakistan airspace ban https://t.co/OamxFefCJ8 https://t.co/OamxFefCJ8
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 11, 2025
The airline stated that the combination of these factors has significantly impacted its long-haul operations, leading to extended flight durations and increased operational complexity on key international routes. The continued closure of Pakistani airspace has been a particularly costly issue, with the airline estimating a loss of $600 million over 12 months.
To minimize disruption for its passengers, Air India has made alternative arrangements. The airline will offer flyers options for flights to Washington, D.C., with connecting layovers through partner airlines. Passengers will have the choice to travel via New York, Newark, Chicago, and San Francisco on flights operated by interline partners, including Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
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