Flight Disruptions: Domestic Airlines Halt Gulf Flights Amid Tensions
Synopsis
Flight cancellations to the Gulf region have surged as domestic airlines respond to UAE airport restrictions driven by escalating tensions. Affected travelers should check their schedules as airlines strive to adapt to the situation.
Key Takeaways
Numerous flights cancelled to the Gulf region.
Airlines adapting to UAE restrictions .
Passengers advised to check flight status frequently.
Continued operations to select Indian cities.
IndiGo coordinating with authorities to restore services.
New Delhi, March 15 (NationPress) Domestic airlines have suspended numerous flights to the Gulf region, particularly targeting Dubai and Abu Dhabi, on Sunday due to the UAE's airport restrictions amidst escalating tensions in the area.
Air India and Air India Express have cancelled several services to West Asia, while IndiGo has also halted flights to Dubai.
“Given the recent directives from UAE Airport Authorities, Air India and Air India Express are obligated to scale back their operations for March 15, 2026,” stated the Air India group in a recent announcement.
“Air India: Conducting one Delhi–Dubai return flight; four out of five scheduled Dubai flights are cancelled; Air India Express: Conducting one Delhi–Dubai return flight; five out of six Dubai flights are cancelled; Abu Dhabi: All five flights by Air India Express have been cancelled,” the airline noted.
In parallel, Air India Express intends to run flights to Delhi, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram. Additionally, Air India Express will operate flights from Ras Al Khaimah to Kozhikode and Kochi.
“These flights are subject to slot availability and prevailing conditions during the operational timeframe,” mentioned the airline.
IndiGo reported the cancellation of flights to and from Dubai due to ongoing airspace limitations connected to the intensifying conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
“In light of the unfolding situation in the Middle East, flight operations have encountered further restrictions in Dubai, resulting in changes to flight schedules. Passengers flying to/from Dubai should verify their flight status prior to heading to the airport. We are also sending updates to keep our customers in the loop,” stated the budget airline.
In an earlier message, IndiGo confirmed that it remains in close touch with the appropriate authorities to gradually restore its flight network across the region, alongside selected routes to Europe.
Point of View
The recent flight cancellations highlight the challenges faced by domestic airlines in responding to geopolitical tensions. The situation underscores the importance of communication and adaptability in the aviation sector, prioritizing passenger safety amidst international conflicts.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the flights cancelled?
Flights were cancelled due to UAE airport restrictions linked to rising tensions in the region.
Which airlines are affected?
Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo are among the airlines that have suspended flights.
How can passengers check their flight status?
Passengers are advised to check their flight status on the airline's official website or app before heading to the airport.
What routes are still operational?
Air India Express plans to operate flights to Delhi, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram.
What should travelers do if their flight is cancelled?
Travelers should contact their airline for rebooking options and updates.
