Middle East Conflict Triggers Widespread Flight Cancellations Across India
Passengers faced significant disruptions at major airports including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, and Cochin International Airport Limited on Monday, as multiple flights were cancelled amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The situation has left travelers stranded for hours, with many reporting minimal updates from airlines regarding rescheduling.
Airport Chaos and Passenger Frustration
At IGI Airport in Delhi, services were severely disrupted due to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. Delhi Airport confirmed the issue in a social media post, stating, "Due to the evolving political situation in the Middle East, westbound international flights continue to experience disruptions and schedule changes."
One passenger at IGI Airport shared their experience: "The Air India flight to Muscat, scheduled for 10 am, was cancelled. I work in travel, and an Air India flight from Mumbai with my clients was also cancelled. We're getting no rescheduling updates. Many people travel to Mecca and Medina during Ramadan, but almost all Middle East flights are currently being cancelled."
Another passenger from Gaya, Bihar, reported being stranded at Mumbai airport for over 24 hours: "I've been waiting since 1 pm yesterday. IndiGo told us to wait, and it's been more than 24 hours. We need to go to Kuwait."
Regional Impact and Flight Statistics
In Kerala, at least 16 Gulf-bound flights were cancelled at Cochin International Airport, leaving numerous passengers stranded. Flight operations to Gulf countries from state airports have been affected, with several airlines suspending or cancelling services due to the conflict.
Indian airlines cancelled 350 international flights on Sunday, marking the second consecutive day of operational disruptions. The Civil Aviation Ministry reported this figure in a social media post, citing airspace restrictions from geopolitical developments. This follows 410 flight cancellations by domestic carriers on February 28.
Airline Responses and Extended Suspensions
Airlines have provided detailed cancellation information. Air India cancelled 22 international flights on Sunday, adding to 28 cancellations announced earlier due to the Middle East crisis. SpiceJet reported 33 flight cancellations to and from the UAE.
Air India Express has extended the suspension of flights to and from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates until 2359 hours IST on March 2. Similarly, IndiGo has extended the temporary suspension of select international flights operating through Middle East airspace until the same time.
The ongoing conflict has led to airspace closures in parts of the Middle East and heightened security concerns, prompting these widespread cancellations and leaving thousands of travelers in limbo across India's major aviation hubs.
