DELHI- Air India Express (IX) will discontinue its services from Hindon Airport (HDX) at the end of the winter schedule, marking a short-lived presence at the regional airport. The airline currently operates flights connecting Hindon with Mumbai (BOM) and Bengaluru (BLR), but bookings are only available until March 27, 2026.

The decision reflects a shift in network strategy as the carrier adjusts operations amid infrastructure constraints and evolving market dynamics. Despite steady demand on its routes, multiple operational factors appear to have influenced the airline’s exit from the National Capital Region’s secondary airport.

Air India Exits Hindon Airport

Air India Express will cease all operations from Hindon Airport by the end of March 2026. The airline launched services less than a year ago, aiming to tap into regional connectivity demand within the Delhi NCR catchment.

However, the airline’s booking system shows no flights scheduled beyond March 27, aligning with the conclusion of the winter timetable. The carrier has not issued an official statement regarding the move.

Industry observers indicate that aircraft availability constraints and network optimization efforts likely contributed to the decision. The upcoming launch of Noida International Airport is also expected to reshape airline capacity distribution in the region.

Hindon Airport Challenges

Hindon Airport faces several operational limitations that restrict growth and airline scalability. The airport currently operates with only two parking bays and a relatively small terminal, which creates congestion during peak hours.

Aircraft often experience delays of up to 20–25 minutes while waiting for parking availability. These inefficiencies increase turnaround times and reduce operational reliability for airlines, Hindu Business Line reported.

Data from aviation analytics firm Cirium shows a notable decline in scheduled flights for April 2026. Overall capacity is set to drop by around 35 percent compared to March, with IndiGo (6E) also reducing select services, while Star Air (OG) continues operations.

Despite these constraints, passenger demand has remained consistent. The Airports Authority of India reported that Hindon handled approximately 960,000 passengers between April and January, indicating sustained regional traffic.

Hindon Airport’s Expansion Plans

Authorities have initiated plans to expand Hindon Airport’s infrastructure to address capacity challenges. The airport, owned by the Indian Air Force, operates a civil enclave managed by the Airports Authority of India.

AAI has proposed acquiring nearly 9 acres of land to expand the terminal and improve aircraft handling capacity. The Uttar Pradesh government has agreed in principle to facilitate the acquisition of around 6.5 acres.

As an interim solution, officials are expanding the existing terminal by 700 square meters. This upgrade aims to ease congestion, enhance passenger amenities, and improve operational flow.

Hindon Airport began commercial operations in October 2019 under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme.

While expansion efforts are underway, airline participation will likely depend on how quickly infrastructure improvements materialize.

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