IndiGo Pulls Back on Europe Flying as Disruptions Stretch Schedules

IndiGo said it will suspend Delhi–Copenhagen services from February 17, 2026, and reduce frequencies on select Delhi–UK routes, blaming “operational constraints” linked to geopolitical tensions that led to airspace closures and airport congestion.

The carrier said longer flight and block times have been especially challenging for its widebody flying using leased Norse Atlantic Airways aircraft, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and that it is taking steps to restore schedule reliability.

The “geopolitical tensions” primarily refer to airspace restrictions that require longer detours. One driver is Pakistan’s limits on Indian carriers using its airspace, which can lengthen westbound routings and has already affected long-haul planning for Indian airlines. Another is an elevated security risk around Iran and parts of the Middle East, where regulators and airlines have warned against overflying or rerouted flights—adding time and making schedules harder to keep reliable.

Travel impact: fewer nonstop options and more long-haul disruption risk

For travelers and travel managers, the near-term impact is less nonstop capacity on affected city pairs and potentially higher disruption risk as schedules absorb longer routings and airport congestion. Frequency cuts can tighten availability on peak days, increase rebooking pressure across hubs, and push more passengers toward one-stop alternatives when nonstop options thin out.

For the wider market, it’s another reminder that airspace risk is affecting network planning.

Airspace risks meet domestic regulatory scrutiny

IndiGo’s move follows a broader pattern affecting Indian carriers: Air India has recently adjusted some long-haul flying amid the operational burden of regional airspace limits.  

At the same time, IndiGo is facing heightened domestic scrutiny after mass cancellations in December, with India’s antitrust regulator opening a probe. The airline said it is reviewing the order and is deciding on the next steps.