India’s domestic airlines are set to operate about 10 % fewer weekly flights in the summer 2026 schedule compared with the same period last year, according to the latest timetable released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Under the revised plan, carriers are expected to fly just over 23,000 domestic departures weekly starting from March 29, down from around 25,600 flights in summer 2025.
The reduction, equivalent to roughly 2,500 fewer weekly flights, comes amid ongoing operational challenges, including rising aviation fuel costs, increasing foreign exchange pressures and global uncertainties that continue to hamper airline capacity planning.
Nine scheduled domestic airlines, including major carriers such as IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, Air India Express, Alliance Air, Star Air, FLY91, and IndiaOne Air, are part of the DGCA's published summer schedule.
Industry officials have noted that unforeseen external factors, most notably geopolitical tensions in West Asia and escalated fuel costs, could prompt additional adjustments to flight frequencies as the season progresses.
For passengers, the trimmed flight schedule means fewer travel options on some routes during peak summer months. Aviation analysts warn that with reduced seat availability, airfares are likely to rise, particularly if demand remains strong.
Overall, the cut in flight operations highlights the challenges facing India’s aviation sector as it balances rising costs, regulatory pressures and global events, all while striving to maintain connectivity across the country.
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