New Delhi, March 1. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has informed that 444 flights are expected to be canceled on Sunday (March 1) following massive disruption due to closure of airspace in Iran and several Middle Eastern countries. On February 28, 410 flights by domestic airlines were canceled due to airspace restrictions over Iran and parts of the Middle East.
410 flights of domestic airlines were canceled on Saturday
Giving information on social media platform ‘X’, DGCA said that major airports are on operational alert to manage possible diversions and ensure uninterrupted convenience of passengers. Passenger assistance, airline coordination and crowd management at the terminal are being closely monitored. Along with this, senior officers have been deployed on the spot. The Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) of the Ministry is continuously monitoring the concerns of passengers and providing assistance in their prompt redressal.
It is noteworthy that 216 complaints were registered with the airline on February 28 and 105 complaints were resolved during the same period, thereby ensuring necessary assistance to the affected passengers. All stakeholders are working in coordination to ensure smooth management of affected passengers and timely assistance to all concerned passengers.
Earlier, the Civil Aviation Ministry had directed all Indian airlines operating international services to continuously monitor airspace advisories, Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) and route restrictions issued by concerned authorities to ensure the safety of passengers in view of the major military operation launched against Iran by the US and Israel on Saturday.
According to the Civil Aviation Ministry statement, ‘In view of the airspace restrictions in force in the Middle East, airlines have been directed to ensure timely redirection or diversion of flights, wherever necessary, in accordance with global safety protocols and established contingency planning procedures.’
According to the ministry’s statement, ‘The safety of passengers and crew is of paramount importance. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the situation to ensure safe, smooth and efficient air operations. The situation is being continuously monitored. Further information will be given as required.
The Aviation Authority of India (AAI) and private airport operators have been advised to maintain better coordination with airlines for ground handling, parking spaces, passenger amenities, crew arrangements and immigration assistance as required.
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