Air India Cancels 28 International Flights Over Middle East Safety Concerns
Air India announced on Saturday the cancellation of 28 international flights scheduled for March 1, 2026, affecting routes connecting India with major cities in Europe, the United States, and Canada. The decision was made in response to the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East, with the airline prioritizing the safety and security of passengers and crew.
Affected Flight Routes and Destinations
The cancellations impact a wide range of key services, including flights from Delhi and Mumbai to London Heathrow, Amritsar to London Gatwick, and routes to New York JFK, Newark, Chicago via Vienna, Toronto via Vienna, Frankfurt, and Paris. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and assured that affected passengers are being notified and provided with alternative travel options to minimise disruption.
Safety as the Top Priority
Air India emphasised that the safety and security of guests and staff remain its highest priority. The airline stated it is continuously monitoring the situation in the Middle East and will make further operational decisions based on ongoing risk assessments. This move follows an earlier announcement where Air India cancelled all flights to Middle Eastern destinations until the end of March 1, 2026, due to the current regional instability.
Background on Middle East Tensions
The cancellations come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, including reported coordinated strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, and retaliatory actions by Iran targeting Israel and US military bases in the region. These developments have raised significant security concerns for international air travel, prompting airlines like Air India to take precautionary measures to ensure passenger welfare.
Air India has committed to supporting affected travellers with rebooking and refunds, underscoring its dedication to customer service during this challenging period. The airline will provide updates as the situation evolves, reflecting its adaptive approach to global security challenges.
