New Delhi: The US-Iran war has dealt a significant blow to international air travel involving Indian airlines, with domestic carriers recording a sharp decline in passenger carriage during the April-June quarter.

According to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) data, international passenger traffic to and from India fell 10.5 per cent during the traditionally busy summer quarter, declining from 1.9 crore passengers to 1.7 crore.

Indian airlines face a bigger setback

The impact was considerably heavier on Indian carriers. Their international passenger carriage fell 26 per cent during the quarter, while foreign airlines operating on Indian routes recorded a 7 per cent increase.

Air India Group was among the worst affected, with its international carriage falling by around 35 per cent. IndiGo also recorded a substantial decline of 15.4 per cent.

The figures reflect the disruption caused by the conflict, which began on February 28, as airlines faced changes to flight routes and operating conditions across the region.

Foreign airlines gain ground

While Indian carriers struggled, some foreign airlines managed to increase their traffic to and from India.

Dubai-based Emirates recorded a 7 per cent rise in its India carriage, reaching 14.8 lakh passengers compared with 13.8 lakh during the corresponding period last year. The airline benefited partly from the UAE restricting foreign airlines’ operations for a prolonged period during the quarter.

Etihad, based in neighbouring Abu Dhabi, also remained relatively stable, recording only a marginal decline of 1,939 passengers from approximately 8.5 lakh during the same period last year.

Conflict continues to affect air travel

The latest figures underline how geopolitical tensions can quickly reshape international aviation. Indian carriers, particularly those with significant overseas operations, have faced the combined effects of regional disruption and changing flight patterns.

The continuing conflict therefore remains an important challenge for airlines as they work to restore international capacity and maintain connections for Indian travellers.