Air India CEO Campbell Wilson on Thursday said the ongoing closure of Pakistan’s airspace has cost the airline an estimated ₹4,000 crore, as flights to Europe and the US continue to take longer, costlier routes.
The restriction, imposed amid regional tensions earlier this year, has forced Indian carriers to bypass Pakistani airspace by flying over the Arabian Sea and West Asia. Wilson said, calling the losses material and ongoing and that they have been forced to operate on routes that are significantly longer, which has a major impact on costs.
The detours have sharply increased fuel burn, crew hours, and operational costs, disrupting schedules and straining resources. The airline, currently in the midst of a major transformation under Tata Group ownership, has been juggling crew rotations and rising global fuel prices while maintaining service standards.
Wilson’s comments came as the airline continues to deal with the emotional aftermath of the June 12 Ahmedabad–London crash, which claimed 260 lives. Describing the tragedy as “absolutely devastating,” he said Air India has been extending all possible support to affected families, first responders, and employees.
The prolonged airspace closure and a major safety tragedy have tested Air India’s resilience as it works to rebuild itself into a competitive global carrier. Despite the turbulence, Wilson said the airline remains focused on safety, learning, and continuous improvement.
A preliminary probe by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) found no technical fault in the aircraft or its engines, though a final report is awaited.
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