India Issues Advisory for Foreign Nationals Amid West Asia Flight Disruptions
India has issued an official advisory for foreign nationals currently in the country following widespread flight disruptions linked to escalating tensions in West Asia. The situation has left numerous travellers uncertain about their onward journeys and facing significant travel plan changes.
MEA Urges Foreign Visitors to Contact FRRO Offices
On Sunday, March 1, 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) urged overseas visitors whose travel plans have been affected to approach the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for assistance. The advisory specifically addresses those needing help with visa extensions or regularizing their stay during this period of uncertainty.
The official advisory states: "All foreign nationals in India, who have had to change their travel plans due to the ongoing developments in the West Asia region and need assistance with extension of their visa or to regularize their stay, are requested to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). The FRRO concerned will help with necessary formalities."
Airspace Restrictions Cause Global Flight Chaos
The advisory comes amid significant airspace restrictions across parts of the Middle East, which have led to hundreds of cancelled and rerouted flights globally. While the government has not provided an official estimate of the number of foreign visitors impacted, travel industry sources suggest that a considerable number of passengers transiting through Gulf hubs have faced sudden cancellations.
India serves as a key stopover and destination for travellers connecting through cities in the Middle East, making the country particularly vulnerable to airspace-related disruptions. The current situation has created unprecedented challenges for both inbound and outbound travellers.
Airlines Cancel Hundreds of Flights
In response to the rapidly changing scenario, airlines operating to and from India have begun suspending services or diverting aircraft to avoid restricted corridors. Air India announced the cancellation of 22 additional international flights scheduled for Sunday, raising the total number of its overseas services called off so far to 50. The airline cited safety considerations and evolving airspace advisories as reasons for the decision.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation reported that a total of 350 flights operated by Indian domestic carriers were cancelled on March 1, 2026, due to airspace restrictions arising from geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
Government Establishes Passenger Assistance Systems
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has activated its Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) to proactively address grievances and queries of air travellers. According to their official statement, the Control Room has resolved 411 passenger grievances during the ongoing situation, ensuring timely assistance and support through coordination with airlines and airport operators.
Passenger concerns received through social media platforms, the AirSewa portal, and dedicated helplines are being closely monitored and prioritised for redressal. The ministry has established helpline numbers (011-24604283 and 011-24632987) and encouraged passengers to check their flight status with concerned airlines while remaining in close coordination for any required assistance.
Preventing Visa Overstays During Exceptional Circumstances
The advisory to foreign nationals underscores the government's attempt to prevent inadvertent visa overstays during this period of exceptional disruption. India's visa regulations require visitors to maintain valid documentation throughout their stay, and the MEA's move is aimed at ensuring flexibility under the current extraordinary circumstances.
Authorities have indicated that concerned FRROs will facilitate necessary extensions and help travellers comply with visa regulations during this challenging period. The government's coordinated approach seeks to balance security concerns with practical support for affected international visitors caught in the travel disruption.
