Aviation sector grapples with financial stress amid West Asia crisis: Sources
New Delhi, June 12
While flight operations in the Middle East are currently categorised as nominal, the ongoing West Asia crisis continues to exert significant pressure on the aviation industry, according to official sources.
The conflict has resulted in a substantial impact on the aviation sector, leading to several operational challenges. Airlines have been forced to reduce and cancel a significant number of flights, which is generating considerable financial stress.
To mitigate these losses, carriers have requested that member states allocate the maximum possible number of flight slots.
According to the sources, several flights have been reduced and cancelled, which is causing financial stress to airlines. They have requested member states to allocate the maximum possible slots.
Indian airlines are getting slots there, but it is yet to reach pre-war levels. We are still far from that, said the sources.
"Ministry of External Affairs continues to closely monitor the developments in the Gulf and West Asia region. Our efforts are focused on ensuring the safety and welfare of the Indian community in the region. We are in constant touch with the state governments and union territories to share information and to coordinate our efforts. Our embassies and consulates across the region are on alert and are proactively assisting our community. They are operating round-the-clock helplines to provide timely assistance to Indian nationals. They are also in close touch with the local governments," he said.
Mahajan also said that advisories are being issued, including information related to local government guidelines, flight and travel situation, consular services and the various measures being undertaken for the community.
"Advisories are being issued, including information related to local government guidelines, flight and travel situation, consular services and the various measures being undertaken for the community. Our missions are actively engaged with the resident Indian community. They are regularly interacting with the Indian community associations, organisations, professional groups and Indian companies to address their concerns. Welfare of the Indian seafarers in the region is of high priority for us. Our missions are extending all assistance to them, including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance and assisting with requests to return to India," he said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Thank God our MEA is monitoring this closely. The Indian community in Gulf countries is huge and vulnerable during such crises. I hope the slot allocation improves soon. Airlines like Air India Express and SpiceJet are already bleeding financially, this conflict is just adding more pressure on their balance sheets. 🛫
I'm just hoping this doesn't lead to fare hikes for common passengers. India's aviation sector already has high operational costs and tax burdens. The government should consider temporary relief measures like reducing ATF prices or waiving certain fees to help airlines through this period. Our economy can't afford another shock after COVID.
Honestly, this is a reminder that India needs to strengthen its own domestic aviation alternatives. We have 30 crore people in the Gulf region, and any crisis there disrupts millions of lives. Maybe high-speed rail or more efficient sea routes could be developed? Just a thought. But for now, kudos to our embassies for their proactive approach.
The slot allocation issue is critical. Indian carriers are getting slots but not pre-war levels. This means longer routes, more fuel costs, and higher ticket prices for passengers. The government should aggressively negotiate with Gulf states for better access. Also, why are we still dependent on Middle Eastern hubs? We need more direct flights to Europe and Africa!
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