As tensions persist across parts of the Middle East, Indian airlines have adopted a cautious approach by scaling down operations while ensuring essential connectivity. Both IndiGo and Air India on Sunday indicated that only a limited number of flights would operate, urging passengers to stay alert and check schedules before heading to airports.
Responding to the evolving situation, IndiGo said it would operate select flights on March 22, emphasising that all decisions are being made based on safety assessments and regulatory approvals. The airline noted that its ground and flight teams are actively assisting passengers dealing with disruptions caused by changes in regional airspace and airport conditions.
In its communication, IndiGo highlighted efforts to minimise inconvenience and ensure passengers reach their destinations, even as conditions remain uncertain. It reiterated that passenger safety and operational caution remain its top priorities.
Meanwhile, Air India, along with its low-cost arm Air India Express, outlined a broader but still controlled flight schedule for the day. Together, the two carriers plan to operate around 50 flights, including regular services and additional connections between India and key destinations in West Asia.
Key routes being maintained include services to Jeddah and Muscat, which continue to witness steady demand. Flights between India and Jeddah alone will account for nearly 20 services, with departures from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Kozhikode. Connectivity to Muscat will also continue through multiple flights from cities including Delhi, Kochi, Mumbai, and Kannur.
In addition to these, airlines are preparing to operate nearly 30 extra flights to destinations in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. However, these services remain subject to real-time factors such as airspace permissions and airport slot availability, making last-minute changes possible.
Airlines have stressed that all operations are being conducted strictly in line with approvals from Indian authorities as well as regulators in destination countries.
