Indian Aviation Looks to Steadier Skies in 2026 After a Turbulent Year

A Year Marked by Accidents, Disruptions and Operational Strain​

Indian aviation heads into 2026 seeking stability and long-term fixes after a year defined by accidents, large-scale disruptions, and regulatory challenges. The sector faced intense scrutiny in 2025 following multiple incidents that not only disrupted travel for thousands of passengers but also resulted in the loss of 260 lives.

As the new year approaches, both industry stakeholders and passengers are focused on safety outcomes, operational resilience, and regulatory clarity. Central to these expectations is the awaited final investigation report into the A171 plane crash, alongside measures to improve helicopter safety in sensitive regions such as the Kedarnath valley and reduce sharp volatility in airfares.

A171 Crash Remains the Defining Tragedy​

One of the darkest chapters in India’s aviation history unfolded on June 12, 2025, when a London Gatwick-bound Boeing 787-8 aircraft operated by Air India crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport. The accident claimed 260 lives, including 241 passengers and crew on board and 19 people on the ground. One passenger survived the crash.

The preliminary findings by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau pointed to a sudden cutoff in fuel supply to both engines within a one-second gap, triggering confusion in the cockpit immediately after takeoff. The final investigation report is now seen as crucial to addressing lingering questions around pilot actions, aircraft systems, and procedural safeguards.

Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu has maintained that the investigation process is thorough and free from interference, even as public speculation continues.

IndiGo Disruptions Highlight Structural Issues​

Operational turmoil at IndiGo emerged as another major storyline of the year. Poor planning during the rollout of revised Flight Duty Time Limitations norms led to widespread flight cancellations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.

The fallout prompted a high-level probe, a 10 percent cut in the airline’s winter schedule, and show-cause notices to its senior leadership. The episode also reignited concerns over the domestic aviation market structure, where IndiGo and the Air India Group together command over 90 percent market share. Regulators have since examined allegations of unfair business practices in the sector.

Infrastructure Gains Offer Some Relief​

Amid the turbulence, infrastructure expansion provided some positive momentum. Navi Mumbai International Airport commenced operations on December 25, while the Noida International Airport is scheduled to begin flights from January 2026. These additions are expected to ease congestion and support long-term growth.

India also played host to the annual meet of the International Air Transport Association in New Delhi, marking the event’s return to the country after more than four decades.

Airspace Closures and ATC Issues Add to Strain​

The sector faced additional pressure from airspace closures during Operation Sindoor in May and restrictions linked to the India-Pakistan conflict. These developments forced airlines to reroute flights, pushing up operating costs, particularly for long-haul international services.

In November, technical issues at Delhi airport’s air traffic control system delayed over 800 flights, highlighting the need for urgent upgrades as passenger traffic continues to rise. Around the same period, software checks across hundreds of A320 family aircraft led to further disruptions.

Safety, Regulation and Market Challenges Persist​

By the end of July, eight aviation accidents had claimed 274 lives across the country, including multiple helicopter and trainee aircraft crashes. Repeated helicopter incidents in hilly regions kept attention firmly on operational risks and safety protocols.

Airlines including Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, and Akasa Air faced regulatory penalties for various lapses, while regional carrier FlyBig suspended operations in October. Instances of GPS spoofing and signal interference at major airports added another layer of concern.

Meanwhile, airport tariff regulation also evolved, with the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority introducing a multi-tiered user charge framework to streamline pricing.

Key Expectations for Indian Aviation in 2026​

Final Crash Report and Safety Clarity​

The release of the final A171 crash report is expected to address unresolved questions and strengthen safety frameworks across the sector.

Focus on Pilot Fatigue and Manpower​

Stabilising the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitations norms, addressing pilot fatigue, and ensuring adequate manpower will be critical as airlines expand.

Fleet Expansion and New Routes​

New airlines are expected to enter the market, while existing carriers plan to add routes and deploy more wide-body aircraft and long-range A321 XLR planes.

Ongoing Supply Chain Pressures​

Global supply chain challenges are likely to persist, forcing airlines to continue with aircraft retrofits and intensified maintenance schedules.

Airport Growth and Cost Visibility​

The commissioning of new airports and greater clarity on airport charges are expected to support long-term sectoral growth.

Despite recent setbacks, India remains one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally. Industry leaders believe that with improved safety oversight, infrastructure readiness, and regulatory balance, the sector can move toward a more stable and sustainable trajectory in 2026.