NITN | @notintownlive | 09 Mar 2026, 08:39 am
Middle East
An IndiGo flight. Photo: Unsplash
The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Monday said Indian carriers are planning to operate around 50 flights between India and the Middle East region amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf that have significantly disrupted flight movements.
In a statement, the ministry said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia, which is affecting air travel between India and the region.
“Airlines are undertaking necessary operational adjustments in view of the prevailing conditions to ensure passenger safety and the orderly conduct of flight operations,” the ministry said.
“As per the current status, Indian carriers are planning to operate 50 flights on March 9, 2026,” it added.
Passenger movement data for March 7 showed that a total of 51 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived in India from the region, carrying 8,175 passengers.
“For March 8, 2026, Indian carriers — Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air — have planned 49 inbound flights from airports in the region such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Muscat and Jeddah, subject to operational feasibility and prevailing conditions,” the statement said.
The ministry added that Indian carriers are continuously assessing the situation at other airports in the region so that additional flights can be operated if required.
It said the government remains in constant coordination with airlines and other stakeholders. Airfares are also being closely monitored to ensure ticket prices remain reasonable and that there is no undue surge during this period.
“Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding flight schedules,” the statement said.
The ministry added that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and issue further updates as necessary.
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The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Monday said Indian carriers are planning to operate around 50 flights between India and the Middle East region amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf that have significantly disrupted flight movements.
Air India has announced two new international routes as part of its ongoing expansion in Asia, adding direct connections to Hanoi and increasing services to Tokyo.
Lufthansa is set to introduce a new nonstop service between Frankfurt and Kuala Lumpur starting October 25, 2026, expanding its presence in Southeast Asia. The route will operate five times a week throughout the year, with flights scheduled daily except Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bookings for the service are already open.
