AI may wind back flight cuts if moderating fuel price trend continues: CEO

Business To Business, Mumbai, 26^th June, 2026:   Air India Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson on Friday said the airline could gradually restore part of its flight network if the easing of airspace restrictions and moderation in aviation fuel prices continue amid improving conditions in West Asia.
Wilson said the carrier may be able to roll back some of the network reductions introduced in recent weeks, provided the positive trend in operating conditions is sustained.
Last month, the Tata Group-owned airline announced a 27 per cent reduction in its international flight operations due to airspace restrictions and a sharp rise in jet fuel prices, both of which significantly increased operating costs on overseas routes.
In addition, Air India temporarily reduced its domestic flight schedule by 22 per cent as it sought to manage the financial impact of elevated fuel costs.
The airline has been adjusting its network and capacity in response to higher operating expenses and disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which affected flight routes and increased flying times on several international sectors.
Wilson indicated that any restoration of services would depend on continued improvement in the operating environment, including further easing of airspace curbs and a sustained decline in fuel prices, which would help reduce costs and improve network efficiency.