Air India Could Restore Flight Schedules if Middle East Situation Remains Stable: CEO Wilson Tells Staff

Air India could reverse some of the flight schedule reductions it implemented in recent months if stability in the Middle East continues, Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson said in an internal communication to employees, citing improving access to regional airspace and moderate fuel prices.Wilson said the easing of tensions had created a "more stable environment," allowing more airspace to reopen while significantly moderating fuel prices, offering relief to airlines that have faced operational disruptions from the conflict."Should this trend continue, we may be able to wind back some of the schedule reductions we'd taken in recent months," Wilson wrote in the note.The comments signal improving operating conditions for the Tata Group-owned

airline, which, like several global carriers, has been affected by airspace restrictions over the Middle East that lengthened flight paths, increased fuel burn and forced network adjustments.While expressing optimism, Wilson cautioned that "there's no guarantee" the conflict would not re-escalate, suggesting the airline remains cautious in planning future capacity.Air India had trimmed parts of its schedule in recent months as geopolitical tensions and restricted airspace added to operational challenges. The reopening of more airspace could shorten flying times on some international routes, while softer fuel prices may help reduce operating costs.The update comes as Air India continues its broader turnaround programme, which has included fleet upgrades, network expansion and improvements in operational performance.In the same communication, Wilson said the airline had recorded its highest-ever on-time performance in June, with overall OTP reaching 86% and domestic OTP touching 90%.