World · Malaysia Bureau
Indian carriers reduce Diwali flights as costs, disruptions bite
Major Indian airlines are cutting capacity during the peak festive season for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, as operational challenges and rising expenses force a retreat from aggressive expansion plans. The move has sent ticket prices soaring, with some one-way fares now matching return journey costs from a year earlier.
LSN Malaysia ·
India's aviation sector is facing an unusual squeeze during Diwali, traditionally the year's busiest travel period, as carriers pull back on capacity additions. The reduction marks a significant shift from the aggressive scheduling that has characterized post-pandemic recovery, reflecting mounting pressure from fuel costs, aircraft maintenance expenses, and infrastructure constraints at major airports.
Ticket prices on popular routes have climbed sharply as demand outstrips available seats. Passengers booking one-way tickets on key corridors are encountering fares that rival the cost of round-trip bookings from the same period last year, signaling the intensity of capacity compression during the festive rush.
Operational disruptions have compounded scheduling challenges for carriers including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India. Airport congestion, crew availability issues, and maintenance schedules have limited airlines' ability to maximize flights during peak travel windows. Industry analysts attribute the capacity cuts partly to these logistical bottlenecks and partly to carriers' efforts to manage margins amid elevated operating costs.
The situation underscores the delicate balance facing Indian carriers as they navigate between capacity deployment and profitability. While higher fares may improve near-term revenues, the reduced flight availability could redirect some passengers to alternative modes of transport or dampen overall travel volumes during the crucial festival season.