New Delhi: Escalating hostilities in West Asia have severely disrupted air travel, leading to widespread flight cancellations by Indian and international carriers and leaving thousands of passengers stranded across major airports. The conflict, sparked by recent Israel and United States strikes on Iran followed by retaliatory action from Tehran, has resulted in extensive airspace restrictions that continue to ripple through global aviation networks.
On Sunday, March 1, at least 350 flights operated by Indian airlines were cancelled nationwide. The disruption followed a difficult February 28, when more than 400 flights were scrapped at Delhi alone as tensions intensified. Airlines now anticipate that a minimum of 300 additional flights could be affected on March 2 as rerouting challenges, safety concerns, and operational constraints persist.
India’s civil aviation authorities have advised passengers to stay in close contact with their respective airlines and verify flight schedules before travelling. Coordination is ongoing between airlines, airport operators, and other stakeholders to manage passenger assistance and monitor the evolving situation.
Major hubs such as **Indira Gandhi International Airport**, **Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport**, and **Kempegowda International Airport** witnessed scenes of congestion and distress as travellers faced last minute cancellations and limited rebooking options. The situation worsened following the suspension of flights by Indian carriers to several West Asian destinations after advisories issued by the **Directorate General of Civil Aviation**.
Among Indian airlines, **Air India** has halted services to and from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until late March 2, citing safety and operational reasons. The airline has also cancelled select Europe bound flights, including routes linking Amritsar, Delhi, Birmingham, Zurich, and Copenhagen, along with corresponding return services.
Low cost carrier IndiGo has announced full flexibility for passengers affected by Middle East disruptions. Travellers are being offered the option to reschedule at no additional cost or receive full refunds for eligible bookings made before February 28, with waivers extended until March 7.
International operations have also been impacted. Emirates has temporarily suspended flights to and from Dubai, while operations at Hamad International Airport remain paused following Qatari airspace closures. SriLankan Airlines has cancelled multiple services as well.
With no immediate easing of tensions in sight, airlines and passengers alike are preparing for continued disruption in the days ahead.
