Air India has officially discontinued its flight operations on the Delhi-Gaya route starting March 29, 2026. This decision comes as a major blow to travelers in the Magadh region, especially since the airline had only resumed its daily services on this route in September 2025. The sudden withdrawal of services is expected to create significant difficulties for regular commuters and the business community who rely on direct connectivity to the national capital.
Why did Air India stop the Delhi-Gaya service?
While the airline management has not released an official statement regarding the specific reasons, aviation industry experts have pointed toward regulatory changes. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) recently introduced new protocols concerning crew duty time and rest hours. It is believed that Air India faced challenges in aligning its flight schedules with these new safety norms. Recently, other airlines like IndiGo have also reduced their operations following similar regulatory pressure and penalties.
What are the main concerns for passengers and business groups?
Local business bodies, including the Central Bihar Chamber of Commerce and the Magadh Industries Association, have expressed strong disapproval of this move. They believe that with Air India exiting the route, IndiGo might gain a monopoly, which could lead to much higher airfares for the common man. A petition has already been sent to Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu seeking his immediate intervention to restore the flights.
Key details of the service discontinuation
The following table summarizes the timeline of Air India operations on the Delhi-Gaya route:
| Event | Date/Details |
|---|---|
| Service Resumption | September 1, 2025 |
| Official Discontinuation | March 29, 2026 |
| Last Flight Operated | AI 1815 (Saturday evening) |
| Affected Airport | Gaya International Airport |
| Key Route | Delhi to Gaya and return |
