Air India Express cancels 2 Patna to Delhi flights on 21 and 22 September

Disruption overview

Air India Express has canceled flight IX1348 from Patna to Delhi on 21 and 22 September 2026, removing 2 planned flights from the schedule. The service was due to leave Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport at 7:15 am on both days, but the airline told airport officials it would not operate because of operational reasons and hasn't given a more specific explanation. Passengers have been told to check directly with the airline for alternative travel, while Patna Airport waits for further guidance. While EC 261 doesn't apply on this domestic Indian route, affected travelers may still have rights to rerouting, refunds, care, and possible compensation under applicable rules.

Disruption details

Air India Express canceled flight IX1348 between Patna and Delhi on 21 and 22 September 2026 after notifying airport officials that the service would not operate for operational reasons. The affected flight was due to run from Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport to Indira Gandhi International Airport. For passengers, this meant last-minute changes on a busy domestic route and an early scramble to find another way to travel.

The service was scheduled to leave Patna at 7:15 am on both days and arrive in Delhi less than 2 hours later. With both departures removed from the timetable, 2 planned flights have been canceled across the 2-day disruption.

Here's what was affected:

• Air India Express flight IX1348 from Patna to Delhi was canceled on Monday 21 September 2026.

• The same service was also canceled on Tuesday 22 September 2026.

• Both flights were due to depart Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport at 7:15 am.

Airport officials said Air India Express's station team formally informed them about the cancellation. So far, the airline hasn't pointed to a technical fault, weather disruption, labor action, or a regulatory restriction. The explanation given publicly remains an operational issue within the airline.

That matters because it leaves affected travelers relying on the airline for the next steps. Passengers have been advised to check the latest status directly with Air India Express and arrange alternatives with the carrier. Patna Airport said it will share further updates if more guidance is provided.

Because the cancellations cover 2 straight days, travelers booked on the morning service may also need to adjust onward plans depending on what the airline offers. At this stage, the airport notice hasn't set out whether passengers will be moved onto later Air India Express flights, placed on Air India services, or offered refunds as the first option.

If you were booked on IX1348, it's worth checking any messages from the airline before leaving for the airport and keeping a record of what you're offered. Based on the reason given so far, this disruption appears to fall within the airline's control rather than being caused by an outside event such as bad weather or air traffic restrictions.

In situations like this, passengers would usually expect rerouting or a refund, plus care such as food, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if an overnight stay becomes necessary. Depending on the exact circumstances of the booking and how the airline handles the cancellation, compensation may also be relevant under local passenger-rights rules.

EC 261 doesn't apply on this wholly domestic Indian route, but that doesn't mean you're without support. If your Air India Express flight was canceled, ask the airline clearly about rebooking, refunds, meals, and any overnight assistance you may need. And if you'd like to understand whether compensation or other support could apply to your journey, you can check your flight with AirHelp's free flight checker.

Protect your future trips with AirHelp+

Secure your flights, luggage and get lounge access