India experienced a decline in air traffic in April compared to March, affecting both domestic and international passengers. Domestic air travel recorded a 4% drop year-on-year, with 140.8 lakh passengers. International traffic faced a more significant decline of 20%, with only 28.3 lakh passengers in April.
The Middle East conflict contributed to the decrease in international flights. However, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority has resumed normal air navigation operations within its airspace, leading to increased flights between the UAE and India. This move has allowed Indian and UAE carriers to operate more flights to various destinations.
Flight operations in the Middle East are gradually improving, with additional flights connecting the region to India. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have opened their airspace for flights to and from India. Airlines such as Air India, Indigo, and Gulf Air are actively operating flights from these countries to India.
Iraq and Iran have limited flight operations, with options for onward travel to India. The Ministry has advised Indian nationals to avoid traveling to Iran and has facilitated the safe return of Indian citizens from the region. Israel has also resumed limited flight operations to facilitate travel to India.
