DGCA’s summer schedule for domestic flights drops by 10% as geopolitical uncertainty rises

Indian airlines are expected to operate slightly over 23,000 weekly domestic flights during the summer schedule starting March 29, 2026, marking a decline of around 10 per cent compared to the same period last year.

The summer schedule, which will run until October 24, has been released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for nine scheduled airlines. These include Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, Alliance Air, FLY91, Star Air, and IndiaOne Air.

According to estimates, airlines operated 25,610 weekly domestic flights during the summer schedule in 2025. A 10 per cent reduction this year means around 2,500 fewer flights, bringing the total to approximately 23,000 weekly services.

Although the DGCA has published airline-wise schedules, it has not provided a consolidated figure or a direct comparison with previous schedules.

The decline in flights comes after a period of operational challenges for the industry. During the current winter schedule (October 2025 to March 2026), airlines had planned to operate 26,495 weekly flights. However, disruptions, particularly those involving IndiGo in December, led the DGCA to reduce the airline’s operations by about 10 per cent.

In addition, the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia have added to the uncertainty. The conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28, has disrupted international routes and increased operational complexity for Indian carriers.

Airline officials have indicated that the current summer schedule was largely finalised in January and February, before the West Asia situation escalated. As a result, the actual number of flights operated may change depending on how the situation develops.

Industry sources say airlines are closely monitoring fuel costs, airspace restrictions, and route viability. These factors could lead to further adjustments or reductions in flight operations in the coming months.

Rising fuel prices and currency fluctuations are also putting pressure on airlines. IndiGo, for instance, has said it plans to operate nearly 2,000 daily flights in April but acknowledged that its international operations may be adjusted depending on developments in the Middle East.

The airline also highlighted that operating costs are increasing significantly, driven by higher fuel prices and foreign exchange rates, adding to an already challenging cost environment.

The reduction in domestic flights reflects a cautious approach by airlines as they navigate multiple challenges, including geopolitical risks, cost pressures, and operational disruptions.

While demand for air travel in India remains strong, airlines appear to be prioritising stability and cost management over aggressive expansion in the current environment.

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the sector can maintain steady growth or if ongoing uncertainties will continue to impact flight operations and capacity planning.