"This is a real loss for Birmingham."
The cancellation of direct flights between Birmingham and Delhi just before Christmas and India’s wedding season has been called a “real loss” for the city’s Indian community.
Air India’s non-stop service between Birmingham and Delhi is set to be suspended from early November 2026, while flights between Birmingham and Amritsar are also expected to pause for the winter season.
This means there will be no direct flights from Birmingham to India this winter.
The Delhi route previously operated three times a week but is expected to be dropped as part of a shake-up of Air India’s winter 2026-27 schedule.
The decision has prompted concerns about the impact on families travelling to India, particularly during the Christmas period and wedding season, when demand for flights is typically high.
BharatFare founder and director Aman Thakran said the cancellation was a “big step backwards” and a “real loss” for Birmingham’s Indian community.
He also warned that the reduction in available flights could cause fare prices to increase.
Aman told BirminghamLive: “This is a real loss for Birmingham.
“The nonstop flight to Delhi meant a grandmother in Handsworth could get on a plane at her local airport and land in India the same day.
“Without it, families face a long trip down the motorway to Heathrow, or a change of plane in the Gulf, often with elderly parents, young children and heavy suitcases full of wedding gifts.
“For a city with one of the UK’s largest Indian communities, losing its direct link to India just before the Christmas and wedding season is a big step backwards.
“When a route disappears, the passengers don’t.
“They move onto the flights that are left, from Heathrow and Manchester and through the Gulf, at the busiest time of year for travel to India.”
“With IndiGo also pausing its Heathrow flights, there are fewer seats to go round this winter, and that usually pushes up fares for popular December dates.
“My advice is to book as early as you can, be flexible by a few days either side, and compare the total cost including getting to the airport, not just the ticket price.
“Anyone already booked on a cancelled Birmingham flight is entitled to a full refund or to be rebooked, so ask Air India about rebooking before accepting a voucher.”
The decision is likely to create difficulties for passengers who relied on Birmingham Airport for direct journeys to India.
It means passengers will have to travel to other parts of the UK for a direct flight.
There are still connecting flights, however, it may be less convenient for older travellers and families with younger children.
