India Approves 26,495 Weekly Flights In Winter Schedule 2025
India’s domestic aviation network is set to expand this winter, with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) approving 26,495 weekly flights, marking a six per cent increase over last year. This expansion reflects the sector’s growing capacity, new aircraft induction, and infrastructure upgrades, including the operationalisation of four runways at Delhi Airport.
The winter schedule, effective from October 26, allows airlines to operate 3,785 daily flights connecting 126 airports nationwide. Compared to the summer schedule, which featured 25,610 weekly flights from 129 airports, this represents a sequential increase of 3.4 per cent. Officials highlighted that these additional flights aim to meet growing passenger demand during peak travel periods, while enhancing connectivity across regional and metropolitan hubs.
Notably, four airports Amravati, Hisar, Purnia, and Rupsi will join the winter network, expanding regional accessibility. Conversely, operations at Aligarh, Moradabad, Chitrakoot, Bhavnagar, Ludhiana, Pakyong, and Shravasti have been suspended, reflecting shifts in demand and operational priorities. The winter schedule will also witness the operational commencement of Navi Mumbai and Jewar airports, further strengthening India’s airport infrastructure.
Among airlines, IndiGo is projected to operate 15,014 flights weekly, accounting for 56 per cent of all approved services, representing a six per cent increase over last winter. SpiceJet will expand even more sharply, with a 26.4 per cent increase facilitated by additional aircraft acquired through wet leasing arrangements. Meanwhile, Air India Express and Akasa Air are planning to operate approximately six per cent fewer flights, reflecting strategic adjustments in fleet deployment and route optimisation.
DGCA officials emphasised that this increase in flight frequency aligns with broader industry objectives of improving passenger convenience, optimising airport utilisation, and supporting sustainable aviation growth. With enhanced operations across both established and emerging airports, passengers can expect improved connectivity, reduced congestion, and better access to key domestic destinations.Experts further noted that the operationalisation of multiple runways at Delhi and expansion at regional airports will help mitigate delays, improve turnaround times, and enhance overall efficiency. With the winter schedule coinciding with festive travel peaks, airlines and regulators are prioritising safety, punctuality, and seamless passenger experiences.As India’s aviation sector grows in scale and sophistication, the winter schedule reflects both market confidence and policy support aimed at making air travel more accessible, efficient, and responsive to rising demand across the country.
