India to Operate 58 Special Flights Amid Middle East Airspace Closure

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Narendra Jijhontiya

India to Operate 58 Special Flights Amid Middle East Airspace Closure

New Delhi, March 4: Due to escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, much of the Middle Eastern airspace has been closed or restricted. In response, Indian airlines have initiated plans to operate 58 special flights on Wednesday to bring back stranded passengers.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that a total of 58 flights are scheduled for March 4, with 30 flights operated by IndiGo and 23 by Air India and Air India Express. Foreign airlines operating between India and the Gulf region are also running limited services, depending on airspace and operational conditions.

The ministry stated that Indian airlines have made balanced adjustments to their schedules. Long and ultra-long-haul flights are gradually resuming through alternative routes, avoiding restricted airspace.

Reports indicate that Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air will operate several special flights from Gulf cities like Dubai and Fujairah. These flights will land at Indian airports in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi, Ahmedabad, and Thiruvananthapuram.

However, authorities have urged passengers not to head to Dubai International Airport or Al Maktoum International Airport until they receive confirmed departure times from their respective airlines.

Dubai’s airspace is partially open, allowing only a few commercial flights. Emirates and IndiGo are running limited flights and are providing regular updates on their websites.

Etihad Airways has announced that flights scheduled from Abu Dhabi are canceled, with operations suspended until 2 PM local time on March 5. However, some cargo and repatriation flights may be operated in coordination with UAE authorities.

Foreign airlines operating flights between India and the Gulf region are also providing limited services based on operational and airspace conditions.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation emphasized that passenger safety is the top priority. All airlines have been instructed to maintain transparent communication with passengers and ensure compliance with rules regarding refunds, rescheduling, and other assistance.

The ministry also mentioned that it is in constant contact with airlines and monitoring airfares to prevent unnecessary price hikes during this period.

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