Air India to reduce Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft flights from Saturday

Air India has announced a 15% reduction in its international services on Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft from June 21 to at least July 15, 2025. This decision follows a directive from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for enhanced safety inspections on the airline's Boeing 787 fleet, where inspections have been completed for 26 out of 33 aircraft, with the remaining checks expected to conclude soon. Additionally, Air India will conduct enhanced safety checks on its Boeing 777 fleet as a precaution. The airline's international operations have faced disruptions over the past six days, resulting in 83 flight cancellations, influenced by heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, night airspace curfews in various European and East Asian countries, and an overall cautious approach taken by its engineering and piloting teams.

From an expert perspective in transportation, this proactive measure reflects a growing trend among airlines to prioritize safety and compliance, particularly amid increasing geopolitical uncertainties. Reducing flight frequencies can serve as both a necessary response to operational challenges and a strategic way to maintain service quality and passenger safety. Additionally, it underscores the importance of robust safety protocols in the aviation sector, which can help in rebuilding passenger confidence during turbulent times.