Air India to Suspend Delhi-Washington Flights from September

12 August, 2025

Air India will suspend its direct flights between Delhi and Washington D.C. starting September 1, citing operational factors. The airline stated the decision is driven by a planned fleet shortfall as it undertakes a major retrofitting program for its Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which will ground multiple planes until at least late 2026. Continued closure of Pakistani airspace also adds to operational complexity. Passengers will be offered alternative travel arrangements, including re-routing through other US gateways or full refunds.

Unpacked:

How long is the Delhi–Washington suspension expected to last, and what factors could change the timeline?

Air India says multiple 787-8s will be grounded during a widebody retrofit, with the 787 program slated to run through mid-2027, while 777 retrofits start in 2027 and end by October 2028. The airline also cites Pakistani airspace closure as an operational constraint. If retrofit throughput improves or airspace reopens, the route could return sooner; further supply-chain delays could extend the pause.

What exactly is being upgraded on Air India’s 787-8s, and how might this affect passengers?

The retrofit adds brand-new interiors across three classes—Business, Premium Economy, and Economy—plus new seats, advanced IFE, refreshed cabins, and reliability upgrades to avionics and critical components to cut disruptions. Seven aircraft will also undergo heavy maintenance checks. Passengers should see improved comfort and fewer operational delays once retrofitted jets re-enter service.

What alternative routings will Air India offer for Delhi–Washington passengers during the suspension?

Air India will rebook customers via other North American gateways it serves, with connections onward to Washington, or provide full refunds. The carrier operates multiple U.S. points, enabling reroutes through cities like New York or Chicago depending on schedule and availability.

How does Pakistani airspace closure impact India–US flight operations and costs?

When Pakistani airspace is closed, India–US flights often take longer northerly or southerly routings, adding block time, fuel burn, and crew costs, and tightening aircraft availability—especially when fleets are partially grounded for retrofit. This operational complexity can make marginal routes less viable until airspace normalizes or additional aircraft capacity returns.

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