Air India officially ceased its full-service operations at Imphal International Airport on 16 June 2025, marking the end of an era that spanned decades. The decision follows a strategic shift in route optimisation across the airline’s network. While the national carrier departs, its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express, will gradually assume operations on routes previously served by the full-service airline, subject to market demand.

Officials clarified that this move is unrelated to recent security incidents or technical faults affecting airlines. Instead, it forms part of a broader restructuring aimed at aligning capacity with evolving passenger needs—especially in regional and non-metro markets like Imphal, where affordable fares are increasingly important.

Despite this change, the transition has not proceeded without disruption. The region recently saw a significant delay of 18 hours due to a technical issue on a Kolkata-bound flight, as well as cancellations on the Guwahati–Hyderabad route, which led to passenger unrest. In response, Air India Express provided accommodation and meals to impacted travellers, managing the disruptions responsibly.

Imphal International Airport bid farewell to the national carrier with a heartfelt message, calling Air India the “Big Brother” and expressing confidence that Air India Express, the “younger brother”, will uphold the legacy of service in the region. The airport’s social media post featured emotional imagery: staff visibly moved, watching the departure of an aircraft with deep nostalgia.

As Air India Express begins phased operations, the focus shifts to maintaining seamless connectivity for residents of Manipur. This handover symbolises not just a change in airline operations, but a broader transformation in how air travel evolves to meet present-day demands.