Domestic airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet have started gradually restoring limited flight operations to and from the Middle East amidst ongoing airspace restrictions linked to the US-Israel and Iran conflict. IndiGo is set to operate 17 departures to eight Middle East destinations on Friday, collaborating with authorities to ensure safe resumption of services. Air India and Air India Express have also announced the resumption of flights to Jeddah and Muscat following the reopening of Saudi’s and Oman’s airspaces.
SpiceJet, on the other hand, will be conducting special flights from the United Arab Emirates to India on March 6 and 7, with additional services scheduled for March 8 to facilitate passenger movement during the conflict. IndiGo has advised passengers to wait for direct communication regarding their bookings before heading to the airports. Air India has further disclosed plans for ad-hoc repatriation flights from various hubs, including Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, on March 6, subject to regulatory approvals.
Scheduled services to other West Asia destinations by Air India remain suspended until March 10, with passengers holding tickets issued up to March 4 for travel between February 28 and March 8 allowed to rebook within a month without incurring additional charges. Notably, Dubai International Airport witnessed a significant increase in traffic on Thursday, nearly doubling compared to the previous day, reaching 25% of normal levels. Industry data also revealed that out of over 44,000 flights scheduled from February 28 to March 5 in the Middle East, more than 25,000 have been canceled.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been actively coordinating with airlines and relevant agencies, establishing a Passenger Assistance Control Room to aid stranded travelers. The Ministry remains in constant communication with airlines, closely monitoring airfares to prevent any unjustified surge in ticket prices during this period.
