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Air India to halt Delhi-Washington direct flights from Sept 1: Here's why
The Tata Group-owned carrier said the decision was necessary 'to ensure the reliability and integrity' of its overall route network.
Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners upgrades, Pak airspace closure
The airline said 26 of its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners are undergoing upgrades to enhance passenger comfort, with some aircraft to remain out of service until late 2026. The airspace closure has lengthened flight times on certain long-haul routes, adding pressure to schedules.
'Coupled with the continued closure of airspace over Pakistan, which impacts long-haul operations by forcing longer routings, the retrofit has made it operationally challenging to maintain the Delhi–Washington service,' the airline said.
Air India one-stop connections to Washington still active
Passengers booked on the route beyond September 1 will be contacted and offered alternatives, including rebooking on other flights or full refunds, Air India stated.
While the non-stop option will cease, Air India will maintain one-stop connections to Washington via New York, Newark, Chicago, and San Francisco through partner carriers.
Non-stop flights to six other North American destinations, including Toronto and Vancouver, will continue.
No safety concerns in Boeing aircraft: Campbell Wilson
Last week, Chief Executive Campbell Wilson said that inspections of the Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 737 fleets found no safety concerns, adding that the retrofit programme remains on schedule.
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