NEW DELHI— Air India Express (IX) has indefinitely postponed its planned launch operations from Noida International Airport (DXN), reducing the number of airlines scheduled to begin services when the airport opens next week.
The move comes as the Tata Group-backed carrier continues to focus on cost-control measures amid mounting financial pressures across the aviation sector.
The airline has also withdrawn operations from Hindon Airport (HDO) in Ghaziabad, leaving Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) as its sole operating base in the National Capital Region.
Air India Express had originally been expected to join IndiGo (6E) and Akasa Air (QP) as one of the launch carriers at Noida International Airport, the Times of India reported.
Noida Airport Launch Next Week
Noida International Airport will begin commercial operations next Monday with a smaller airline lineup than initially planned. IndiGo will become the airport’s largest operator during the early stages of development, while Akasa Air is scheduled to begin services shortly after the launch.
The absence of Air India Express reduces the scale of the airport’s initial operations.
Industry sources indicate that the airline is prioritizing network efficiency and avoiding additional costs associated with establishing infrastructure at a second airport in a region where it already maintains a significant presence.
Air India Express has also reduced flights across multiple domestic markets as part of a broader network rationalization strategy. Analysts note that several routes previously served from the National Capital Region can continue to be operated efficiently through Delhi Airport.
Hindon Traffic Falls
The carrier’s withdrawal has also impacted Hindon Airport, which has experienced a significant decline in commercial flight activity this year.
During the previous winter season, the airport handled approximately 25 daily aircraft movements, including arrivals and departures.
That figure has now dropped to around eight daily movements. IndiGo currently operates the majority of services, while regional carrier Star Air maintains a smaller presence.
Air India Express previously operated up to 10 daily flights from Hindon. Its departure, combined with capacity reductions by other airlines, has accelerated the airport’s decline in traffic volumes during the summer schedule.
Industry observers attribute part of the reduction to higher operating costs linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Airlines across several markets have adjusted schedules as fuel expenses and operational challenges continue to affect profitability.
Aviation Recovery Plans
Hindon Airport also faces operational limitations that can complicate airline scheduling. The airport currently has only two parking bays for commercial aircraft and operates within restricted daytime hours.
These limitations can create disruptions when aircraft delays occur. If an aircraft occupies a parking position longer than expected, arriving flights may need to divert to Delhi Airport due to the lack of available parking capacity.
Despite current challenges, airport stakeholders remain optimistic about future growth. Hindon is expanding its infrastructure with additional aircraft parking bays and plans to enlarge its passenger terminal.
Meanwhile, Noida International Airport is preparing for a gradual increase in services as airlines continue evaluating market conditions.
Industry executives maintain that demand recovery and improved operating conditions could encourage carriers to expand operations in the region in the coming years.
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