Whalesbook
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has finalized the domestic flight schedule for the upcoming winter season, which spans from October 26, 2025, to March 28, 2026. Under this schedule, airlines are set to operate 26,495 departures per week, serving a network of 126 airports across India. This marks an increase from the 25,610 weekly departures that connected 129 airports during the Summer Schedule 2025.
The ministry highlighted that the Winter Schedule 2025 (WS25) will see a 5.95% rise in weekly departures compared to the Winter Schedule 2024 (WS24). This indicates a significant expansion in flight operations and air connectivity. Four new airports – Amravati, Hissar, Purnia, and Rupsi – will commence flight services, extending air travel to new regions. However, operations will be suspended at seven existing airports: Aligarh, Moradabad, Chitrakoot, Bhavnagar, Ludhiana, Pakyong, and Shravasti.
Impact
This increased flight capacity and expanded airport network are expected to boost the Indian aviation sector. It suggests a positive outlook for airlines in terms of operational growth and potential increases in passenger and cargo volumes. The addition of new airports can spur regional economic development by improving accessibility. The shift in airport operations might also lead to adjustments in airline route planning and demand distribution.
Rating: 6/10
Difficult Terms:
Winter Schedule: The operational plan for airlines during the colder months, typically from late October to late March, detailing flight routes, frequencies, and timings.
Departures: The act of an aircraft leaving the ground for a flight.
Connectivity: The extent to which different places are linked by transport services, such as flights.