Air India to halt Delhi–Washington non-stop flights from September 2025
Pakistan airspace closure adds complexity to long-haul transatlantic operations
DUBAI: Tata Group-owned Air India will suspend its five-times-weekly non-stop service between Delhi and Washington, DC, from 1st September 2025, citing a combination of aircraft shortages and operational constraints.
The move follows the start of a $400 million retrofit programme for the airline’s Boeing 787-8 fleet, alongside the continued closure of Pakistani airspace, which has forced longer and costlier flight routings on transatlantic sectors.
The airline said the decision is a strategic measure to “ensure the reliability and integrity” of its overall network during the retrofit period, which will keep multiple aircraft out of service until at least late 2026.
Why the suspension?
Air India began retrofitting 26 Boeing 787-8 aircraft in July 2025, starting with VT-ANT at a Boeing facility in Victorville, California. A second aircraft will join in October, with both expected to re-enter service in December 2025. The upgrade includes brand-new seating in business, premium economy and economy cabins, new inflight entertainment systems, redesigned interiors and enhanced galleys.
The extensive programme is expected to run until mid-2027 for the 787s, after which 13 Boeing 777-300ERs will undergo similar upgrades, now targeted for completion by October 2028 due to supply chain delays.
What are the alternatives?
While the Washington service will pause, passengers can reach the US capital via one-stop connections through New York, Newark, Chicago and San Francisco. These are available under interline agreements with Alaska Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, enabling single-itinerary bookings with baggage checked through to the final destination.
How are passengers affected?
Travellers booked beyond the suspension date will be contacted directly and offered alternative travel arrangements or full refunds. Air India stressed its commitment to North American services, with continued non-stop flights to six destinations including Toronto and Vancouver.
The suspension coincides with heightened scrutiny of Air India’s operations, as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation investigates recent technical incidents on domestic routes involving delays and emergency landings.