Aviation

Is Air India Introducing Dedicated Freighter Services and Optimizing Its Cargo Network?

Air India’s US Service Takes a Hit with 60 Flight Cancellations This Peak Season

As the eCommerce platform rapidly expands, airlines are facing increased demand to transport cargo between various global locations, necessitating faster shipping routes.

As per the sources Economic times. Air India Group is currently consolidating its cargo operations and is considering the creation of a separate entity with dedicated freighters, according to officials. This restructuring will enable the Tata-owned airline to better focus on the growing air cargo market, driven by an expanding economy and increased trade activity.

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Regarding Air India’s cargo strategy, an official mentioned plans to introduce dedicated freighters to accommodate rising cargo volumes. “Additionally, we may spin off the cargo segment into a subsidiary to fully realize its potential,” the official said, though no specific timeline was provided. An Air India spokesperson declined to comment on the potential spin-off or the addition of freighters.

Recent surveys indicate that India is becoming a major hub for imports and exports, with international airlines like DHL, Qatar Airways, and FedEx operating significant cargo operations in this region.

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IndiGo is also planning to establish its own dedicated cargo fleet by converting A320 passenger aircraft. Currently, IndiGo has expanded its network between China and India.

Air India, aiming to enhance its profitability, is adding a dedicated cargo fleet and separating its cargo operations into a distinct entity. This move is expected to address the growing demand for air cargo services.air india a350 interior

According to a second company official, Air India plans to partner with additional sales agents, freight forwarders, and last-mile delivery providers.

Aviation

Air India’s US Service Takes a Hit with 60 Flight Cancellations This Peak Season

Air India, owned by the Tata Group, has announced the cancellation of around 60 US-bound flights scheduled for the busy travel months of November and December.

Traditionally, airfares between India and the US climb significantly during this period, and these cancellations are anticipated to push prices even higher, impacting both non-stop and connecting routes.

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The affected flights air india new routes include those from Delhi to Washington, San Francisco, Chicago, and New York, along with flights from Mumbai to New York. Currently, Air India remains the only Indian airline offering direct services to the US.

The airline attributed the cancellations to delays in returning several aircraft from intensive maintenance, alongside supply chain issues that have temporarily reduced its operational fleet.

An Air India spokesperson confirmed that the airline has had to cancel a “small number” of flights due to delays from its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider.

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Additionally, some wide-body aircraft remain grounded due to technical issues, exacerbating the shortage of available aircraft.

The spokesperson added, “Due to the delayed return of some aircraft from heavy maintenance and supply chain constraints resulting in a temporary reduction in operating fleet, Air India regrets that a small number of flights have been cancelled between now and December end.”

Air India has assured affected passengers of a full refund, the option to reschedule for another date, or rebooking on nearby flights operated by the air india group, while expressing its apologies for the inconvenience caused by factors beyond its control.