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Restructuring in the Air Sector
Air India has announced a further reduction of 145 weekly international flights. This measure, which comes on top of previous adjustments, could reduce cargo capacity (belly cargo), affecting supply chains between Asia and Europe and putting pressure on logistics costs for Spanish companies.
A strategic adjustment with a direct impact on global logistics
The airline Air India has confirmed a significant readjustment in its global operations with the Additional cancellation of 145 international flights per weekThe decision, announced today, May 14, 2026, is part of a strategy to optimize routes and fleet, but it has a direct impact on air cargo capacity and creates a new variable of uncertainty in global supply chains, especially for Spanish companies with interests in Asia.
This move adds to other adjustments made by the company in recent quarters and reflects a trend in the airline sector of prioritizing route profitability over market share. Although Air India While the specific routes affected have not been detailed, the magnitude of the cut anticipates a significant contraction in transport supply.
The side effect of 'Belly Cargo' and its consequences for Spain
The reduction in passenger flights has a direct side effect on freight logistics: reduction of available space in warehouse, known in the industry as belly cargoThis space is essential for the transport of high-value goods, pharmaceutical products, technological components and textiles, key sectors for Spanish foreign trade.
Logistics experts consulted by Empresa Exterior They warn that this contraction in supply, in a corridor as dynamic as Asia-Europe, could generate a increase in air freight rates in the short and medium term.Any reduction in capacity at major airlines creates a domino effect. Less available space means more competition for cargo and, therefore, upward pressure on prices, which Spanish importing and exporting companies will feel in their operating costs.", analyzes an air cargo specialist.
This scenario could benefit Middle Eastern airlines, such as Emirates o Qatar Airways, already the major European freight operators, such as Lufthansa Cargo o IAG Cargo, which could capture the unmet demand by Air India.
| Concept | Detail |
|---|---|
| Airline | Air India |
| Announced Adjustment | Cancellation of 145 weekly flights |
| Types of Flights | International (passengers) |
| Main Logistics Impact | Capacity reduction of belly cargo |
| Potential Consequence for Spain | Increased air freight rates and supply chain review |
Key points and frequently asked questions about Air India's flight cuts
How does this decision affect Spanish exporting and importing companies?
Directly. Spanish companies that rely on air freight for their trade with Asia could face increased freight costs and greater difficulty finding cargo space. This necessitates a proactive review of freight forwarder contracts and a possible diversification of routes or even modes of transport, considering multimodal options.
Is this an isolated trend or a general movement in the airline industry?
This is part of a global post-pandemic trend. Many airlines are streamlining their networks to focus on the most profitable routes, optimize fleet utilization, and improve profit margins. The era of expansion at all costs has given way to a more strategic and conservative management of capacity, both for passengers and cargo.
What alternatives do Spanish companies have for transporting goods to Asia?
In addition to seeking capacity with other airlines through their logistics partners, companies should assess the feasibility of ocean freight for less urgent goods. Furthermore, cargo hubs in the Middle East and Europe are becoming increasingly strategic alternatives for channeling goods flows, making it crucial to negotiate with operators who have a strong presence in these areas to ensure supply chain resilience.
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