I am writing to highlight the growing concerns among travellers following the recent decision by major Indian airlines to reduce flight services amid rising aviation fuel costs caused by geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Israel, the US.
The sharp increase in international aviation fuel prices has prompted leading Indian carriers, including Air India and IndiGo, to scale back their operations.
Reports indicate that IndiGo plans to reduce domestic services by approximately seven to 10 per cent during June and July, while Air India may cut around 22pc of its services. Since these two airlines account for a significant share of India’s aviation market, the reductions are expected to have a substantial impact on passenger travel.
The timing of these cuts is particularly challenging. The summer vacation and monsoon season are periods when thousands of expatriate families from Gulf countries travel to India. Many families, especially from Kerala, schedule their visits months in advance to coincide with school holidays and family gatherings. Reduced flight availability is likely to create difficulties for these travellers, including limited booking options, longer waiting times, and higher ticket prices.
Passengers who rely on connecting flights through major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru to reach smaller destinations may face additional inconvenience. Some Indian airlines have also suspended or reduced several international routes, including services to cities such as Chicago, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, Paris, Singapore and Bangkok.
A major factor behind these decisions is the increase in fuel costs. Disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have affected crude oil transportation, driving up aviation fuel prices. Fuel constitutes nearly 40pc of airline operating expenses, making sustained operations increasingly difficult.
As seat availability declines, ticket prices are already rising.
Travel industry experts warn that fares may increase further as school holidays begin and demand grows.
While airlines have offered refunds and date-change options for affected passengers, the uncertainty remains a source of concern for many expatriate families.
JJ
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