Highlights:
Air India's CEO Campbell Wilson said on Monday (24) that travel demand to the US has fallen. He explained that several issues are responsible, including airspace restrictions, longer flying times, extra refuelling stops, and visa delays that make travellers hesitant.
Despite these challenges, Wilson said the drop in demand is only temporary. Air India remains confident about the long-term potential of the North American market.
Air India currently flies to six North American cities: Newark, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Vancouver, and Toronto. It operates 51 one-way flights each week using Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft.
Wilson also said the airline has offered some pilots the option to temporarily work under contracts that require fewer flying hours. This mainly affects Boeing 777 pilots, as Air India will reduce the size of its 777 fleet in 2026. The airline now has 22 Boeing 777s, but some leased planes must be returned, and some older aircraft will be retired. New Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s will take their place.
Wilson noted that India needs to strengthen its position in global aviation. He said policies that help airlines train and retain pilots, including longer notice periods, could benefit the country’s aviation sector.
