Middle East Crisis: Over 850 Flights Cancelled as Indian Carriers Suspend Gulf Operations
The escalating geopolitical situation in the Middle East has triggered a massive disruption in international air travel, with Indian carriers cancelling nearly 900 flights over a 48-hour period. As airspace restrictions tighten over Iran and surrounding regions, major airlines including Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet have announced the suspension of services to several Gulf destinations.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), 410 domestic carrier flights were cancelled on February 28, with another 444 cancellations expected today, March 1. The Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, chaired a high-level review meeting with the DGCA and airport operators to prioritize passenger safety and manage the operational fallout.
Airline-Specific Disruptions and Relief Measures
Indian airlines have issued urgent advisories for passengers traveling to the Middle East:
- Air India & Air India Express: All Air India flights to Middle Eastern destinations remain suspended. Air India Express has specifically halted Gulf operations until 23:59 hrs on March 1, 2026. Impacted guests can opt for a free date change or cancellation for travel scheduled up to March 5.
- Akasa Air: The airline has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Riyadh until March 2, 2026. Passengers booked through March 7 are eligible for full refunds or rescheduling at no extra cost.
- IndiGo: India’s largest carrier is monitoring the situation over Iran and providing notifications via registered mobile numbers. Affected passengers can access alternate flight options or full refunds through the airline’s website.
- SpiceJet: Operations to Dubai (DXB) are currently impacted due to airspace closures. The airline has advised passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Government and Airport Response
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has placed major airports on “operational alert” to manage potential diversions and terminal crowding. To assist stranded travelers, the Ministry has activated a Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) reachable at 011-24604283 or 011-24632987.
“Indian carriers have been advised to undertake timely rerouting or diversions strictly in line with global safety protocols,” stated Minister Kinjarapu. He added that the government is in close contact with the Ministry of External Affairs to monitor the safety of Indian nationals abroad.
As the situation remains fluid, Pune residents and travelers from across India are strongly urged to confirm their flight status via official airline apps or the AirSewa portal before commencing their journey to the airport.
