Kuwait's sudden airspace shutdown on Thursday has severely impacted Air India Express operations, leading to the cancellation of the Kochi-Bahrain flight and delays across multiple routes. The closure, implemented without prior notice, has left hundreds of passengers stranded at airports in India and the Gulf region.
Impact on Air India Express Services
Air India Express confirmed that its flight from Kochi to Bahrain was cancelled due to the airspace restrictions. Other flights to and from Kuwait, including services from Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, faced significant delays. The airline issued a statement advising passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Passengers Stranded
Many passengers reported being stuck at Kochi International Airport for hours. Some expressed frustration over the lack of clear communication from authorities. "We were told to wait indefinitely without any updates," said a passenger who wished to remain anonymous.
- Kochi-Bahrain flight cancelled entirely.
- Delays reported on Mumbai-Kuwait and Delhi-Kuwait routes.
- Hyderabad-Kuwait service rescheduled to later time.
Reason for Airspace Closure
Kuwaiti authorities have not provided an official reason for the shutdown, but sources suggest it may be related to military exercises or security concerns. The closure is expected to last for an unspecified period, causing further disruptions to regional air travel.
Airlines Advise Caution
Other airlines operating in the region, including IndiGo and SpiceJet, have also adjusted their schedules. Passengers are urged to stay in touch with their airlines for real-time updates. Air India Express has offered free rebooking or refunds for affected passengers.
The disruption comes at a time when Gulf routes are already under pressure due to increased summer travel demand. Industry experts warn that prolonged closure could lead to cascading delays across the network.
