NEW DELHI – Air India has announced plans to suspend its direct flights between India and Washington D.C., effective September 1, citing operational adjustments and changes in passenger demand patterns. The decision will temporarily end the national carrier’s non-stop connection to the U.S. capital.
According to airline officials, the suspension comes as part of a broader network review aimed at optimizing routes, aircraft utilization, and profitability. The carrier has been reassessing long-haul services in light of fluctuating market conditions, competition from other carriers, and ongoing fleet deployment strategies.
Air India currently operates multiple direct flights to the United States, including routes to New York, Newark, San Francisco, and Chicago. While the Washington service will be halted, the airline has indicated that passengers can continue to reach the U.S. capital via connecting flights through its existing U.S. gateways.
Industry sources suggest the decision may also be influenced by the airline’s ongoing fleet modernization program and the introduction of newer aircraft on select routes. The carrier has not confirmed when, or if, the Washington service will resume.
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