Flight operations between India and West Asia have faced significant disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Indian carriers have had to cancel over 10,000 flights as a result, with daily flights to West Asia dropping from 300-350 to just 80-90. This decline underscores the extensive impact of the conflict on air travel.
The conflict, which began on February 28 following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, has led to widespread airspace restrictions and safety concerns along crucial flight routes. Recent data shows a substantial increase in flight cancellations compared to earlier figures shared in Parliament. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu highlighted that safety remains a top priority for both the government and airlines.
Flight operations are suspended in conflict zones whenever airspace closures make it unsafe for aircraft to operate. Despite these challenges, a significant number of passengers have continued to travel, with around 2.19 lakh passengers flying during the initial phase of the crisis. Authorities, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, are actively monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with international counterparts to ensure passenger safety.
