Air India has announced the suspension of its non-stop flights from Bengaluru and Mumbai to San Francisco, effective 1 March, citing rising operational costs and ongoing airspace restrictions. The move is part of a broader realignment of the airline’s North American network, including increased services from Delhi to San Francisco and Toronto. Passengers affected by the change will be offered alternative flights or full refunds.
The airline’s spokesperson explained that the decision allows better deployment of aircraft and resources amid regulatory and operational constraints. “We have adjusted our international schedule to manage costs and ensure optimal capacity utilisation,” the official said, adding that the Delhi–San Francisco service will increase from seven to ten weekly flights, while Delhi–Toronto services will also be enhanced to ten weekly flights.Passengers with confirmed bookings on the Bengaluru–San Francisco and Mumbai–San Francisco routes have expressed concern and uncertainty, particularly those travelling after 28 February. Social media reactions have highlighted the challenges faced by technology professionals and business travellers who rely on direct connections to the US West Coast for work and family commitments.
An aviation analyst noted that the route adjustment reflects larger trends in global aviation, where airlines are adapting to rising fuel costs, airspace limitations, and evolving passenger demand. “Direct flights between secondary Indian hubs and the US are sensitive to operational costs. Expanding Delhi services allows airlines to maintain connectivity while balancing financial viability,” the analyst said. Air India has committed to contacting affected passengers directly and facilitating alternative arrangements. For travellers, the shift may entail additional travel time or layovers, but the airline emphasises that service continuity and passenger safety remain priorities. “We will explore reinstating non-stop services from Bengaluru and Mumbai if airspace and operational conditions improve,” the spokesperson added.
Industry observers highlight that while Delhi remains a dominant hub for transcontinental flights, regional cities such as Bengaluru and Mumbai are increasingly important for business travel. Adjustments like these underline the complexities of international flight scheduling, where operational costs, regulatory constraints, and passenger demand must be carefully balanced. For passengers and stakeholders, the cancellation is a reminder of the need for flexible travel planning and proactive communication from carriers. Despite the inconvenience, the enhanced Delhi routes are expected to absorb a significant portion of demand, maintaining India–US connectivity and supporting international business and diaspora travel.
Bengaluru Mumbai Air India Cancels Non Stop Flights To San Francisco
