The continuous rise in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices has begun to affect domestic flights. In September, the price of ATF increased by 5.5%, reaching approximately 121.3 Indian rupees per liter. Against the backdrop of rising fuel costs and increased operating expenses, the airline IndiGo has reduced the number of flights on some key domestic routes from Hindan Airport in Ghaziabad. Currently, the airline operates only 5 routes from this airport.
IndiGo has decreased the frequency of flights from Hindan to Kolkata, New Mumbai, and Varanasi. The daily flight to Kolkata is now operated only twice a week, according to the schedule—either Monday and Sunday or Wednesday and Sunday. For New Mumbai, the daily service has been reduced to four days a week, and the flight to Varanasi has been reduced from six to five days a week. Passengers can check the flight schedule on the IndiGo website.
Currently, IndiGo serves flights from Hindan Airport to Varanasi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, and New Mumbai. Flights to Bangalore continue daily, as before. Flights to Chennai operate on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The flight schedule to Varanasi includes Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The service frequency to Kolkata and New Mumbai has also been lowered compared to the previous period.
According to representatives of IndiGo, the reduction in flights is caused by the pressure of rising fuel prices and operational costs. Fuel accounts for between 40% and 60% of any airline's total operating expenses. Consequently, the increase in ATF cost directly impacts airline expenditures. The rise in fuel prices linked to the Middle East crisis has also intensified pressure on airlines. To control losses, IndiGo has reduced its domestic capacity by approximately 5%–7%. Meanwhile, Air India has cut its flights by 22%.
There has been a continuous increase in ATF prices in recent months. In July, the price was around 110 Indian rupees per liter; in August, it rose to 115 Indian rupees, and after the 5.5% increase in September, it reached approximately 121.3 Indian rupees per liter. Rising fuel prices force airlines to spend more on each flight, which is reflected in fares, the number of flights, and the airline's capacity on certain routes.
Commercial flights at Hindan Airport began in June. In July 2025, IndiGo launched eight new routes from there. However, some routes, such as Ahmedabad, Indore, and Patna, were closed just a few months later. Operational difficulties at Hindan Airport are not new. Air India Express has completely left this terminal. Currently, commercial services here are provided only by IndiGo and Star Air. Since Hindan is located on an important Indian Air Force facility, flight times are restricted, and aircraft parking facilities are also limited. These factors make it difficult for airlines to increase their capacity.
Passengers planning a trip from Hindan Airport are advised to check the flight date and seat availability before booking tickets. Especially those traveling to Kolkata, New Mumbai, and Varanasi may have fewer options compared to the past. Passengers heading to Bangalore and Chennai must also plan their trip according to the available schedule. If the pressure from fuel and operational costs persists, further changes in the number of flights on some routes may occur in the future.