New Delhi — Air India will suspend its nonstop service between New Delhi and Washington, D.C., from September 1, citing a shortage of long-haul aircraft and the prolonged closure of Pakistan’s airspace. The move marks a temporary setback in the carrier’s India–US aviation network, affecting one of its most prominent North America routes.
The state-owned airline said the suspension is tied to a $400 million retrofit program for its 26 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, a cornerstone of Air India’s transcontinental fleet. The upgrades, designed to modernize cabins and enhance passenger comfort, will keep a significant portion of aircraft grounded through late 2026, forcing adjustments in route priorities across the India–North America sector.
Operational pressures have been intensified by the continued ban on Indian carriers using Pakistani airspace, a restriction in place since regional tensions flared after a deadly incident in Kashmir. Under the government’s contingency plan, codenamed Operation Sindoor, Air India’s flights to Washington have been rerouted onto longer, fuel-heavy paths, increasing operational costs and reducing schedule flexibility for India–US services.
Passengers booked beyond the September cut-off date will be offered either full refunds or rerouted travel via partner carriers Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. These one-stop itineraries will connect through major US hubs including New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Chicago (ORD), and San Francisco (SFO), with baggage checked through to final destinations.
While the Delhi–Washington service will be suspended indefinitely, Air India confirmed that nonstop flights to six other North American destinations, including Toronto and Vancouver, will continue without interruption. The airline has not committed to a restart date for the Washington route, noting that the decision will depend on aircraft availability and the resolution of the Pakistan airspace closure.
According to Reuters, the announcement follows a turbulent year for Air India, including a fatal crash near Ahmedabad in June that claimed 260 lives and prompted heightened regulatory scrutiny.
