350 international flights cancelled…Indian Airlines flights badly affected amid Israel-Iran war

New Delhi : Indian air travel is being badly affected due to the ongoing military conflict and airspace restrictions in the Middle East. On Sunday, the Civil Aviation Ministry informed that domestic airlines canceled 350 international flights. Earlier on Saturday, 410 flights were affected. Air India and Indigo have suspended flights to Gulf countries. Hundreds of flights were canceled at Delhi and Mumbai airports. The ministry is coordinating with airlines to help passengers. All airlines have assured passengers of refund and alternative arrangements.

Increasing scope of flight cancellations

On Sunday, the ministry said that 350 flights were canceled due to the closure of airspace in the Middle East. Air India canceled 22 new international flights, whereas 28 flights of February 28 were already cancelled. SpiceJet canceled 33 flights related to UAE. Indigo also extended the suspension of select flights till March 2. Air India Express stopped all flights to Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi and UAE till the night of 2 March.

Heavy impact on Delhi-Mumbai airport

Delhi and Mumbai airports were most affected. At least 100 flights were canceled in Delhi, including 60 departures and 40 arrivals. Till 2:30 pm, 125 flights were canceled in Mumbai, including 67 departures and 58 arrivals. DIAL warned passengers about changes in westbound flights. Mumbai Airport had issued NOTAM to stop some diverted flights due to lack of parking.

Impact in other cities including Amritsar

10 flights were also canceled at Amritsar airport. These include two flights of Qatar Airways to Doha, four flights of Dubai-Sharjah of Air India Express, two flights of SpiceJet and two flights of Indigo. Officials said this step was taken due to the situation in the Middle East and airspace restrictions. Passengers have been appealed to maintain contact with the airlines. The airport authority is monitoring the situation.

Relief measures for passengers

The ministry said that airlines are giving full refund or re-scheduling to passengers without any charges. Air India and Air India Express have provided this facility for journeys booked till 28th February and till 5th March. Passenger Assistance Control Room activated. Complaints are being resolved immediately. Airlines are advising passengers to keep contact details updated and check their websites.

Air India stopped flights till March 2

Air India has stopped flights to UAE, Saudi, Israel and Qatar till the night of 2 March. Many flights going to Europe were also cancelled, like Delhi-Zurich, Delhi-Copenhagen, Amritsar-Birmingham etc. Air India Express extended the suspension of flights to Gulf countries. Affected passengers are being informed through email or message. The suspension may continue until the situation becomes normal.