Air India is halting flights to Washington DC from New Delhi from September 1.
It says the route will be suspended due to a shortage of aircraft as it upgrades its Boeing fleet.
It also cited the continuing ban on Indian carriers overflying Pakistan’s airspace as a factor.
It blames a ‘combination of operational factors, to ensure the reliability and integrity of Air India’s overall route network.’
“The suspension is primarily driven by the planned shortfall in Air India’s fleet, as the airline commenced retrofitting 26 of its Boeing 787-8 aircraft last month,” Air India said,.
The upgrade program will ground several aircraft simultaneously until at least the end of 2026, it says
Additionally, the closure of Pakistan airspace ‘impacts the airline’s long-haul operations, leading to longer flight routings and increased operational complexity.’
The airline will fly non-stop between India and six destinations in North America, including two Canadian routes.
The airline will contact customers booked on DC flights after September 1 to arrange rerouting or refunds.
