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Indian Airlines Boost Gulf Flights Amid West Asia Tensions, Govt Monitors

Indian airlines are scheduled to operate additional flights from the Gulf region starting Wednesday, March 12, as the government monitors the situation in West Asia. Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo are among the carriers increasing services to destinations like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Muscat. The Civil Aviation Ministry and Minister Ram Mohan Naidu are overseeing operations to ensure passenger safety and coordinated responses. Authorities are also monitoring airfares to prevent undue price surges and advising passengers to contact their airlines for updates.

Key Points: India Increases Flights from Gulf, Monitors West Asia Situation

  • More flights from Gulf starting March 12
  • Govt closely monitoring West Asia situation
  • Airfares being watched to prevent surges
  • Passenger safety is top priority
  • DGCA facilitating airport slots and alternates
2 min read

Domestic airlines to operate more flights from Gulf on Wed as govt keeps close watch

Indian carriers like Air India & IndiGo add more flights from the Gulf region as the government closely watches West Asia developments for air travel safety.

"Airlines are making appropriate operational arrangements... with passenger safety and continuity of services remaining the primary considerations - Civil Aviation Ministry"

New Delhi, March 11

Indian carriers are set to operate more flights from the war-affected Gulf region on Wednesday, as the government is keeping a close watch on the ongoing developments in the West Asia region and its possible implications for air travel between India and the region.

Operational plans of airlines indicate that Air India and Air India Express will operate flights to Riyadh starting March 12, while Indigo will commence Mumbai-Riyadh-Mumbai services from the same date.

"SpiceJet has been facilitated to obtain alternate airport approvals to ensure continued operational safety and flexibility in the region. Akasa Air has been advised to align its planned commencement of Mumbai-Riyadh-Mumbai services with prevailing operational conditions which is scheduled to begin operations from 12th March 2026," Civil Aviation Ministry said in a statement.

Air India and Air India Express will together operate a total of 58 scheduled and non-scheduled flights to and from the West Asia region on March 11.

The two carriers continue to operate their respective scheduled services to and from Jeddah and Muscat on March 11, operate a total of 8 flights to and from Jeddah, and Air India Express operating 14 scheduled flights to and from Muscat, according to the airline.

Operational data for March 9 indicates that 45 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived in India from West Asia, carrying 7,407 passengers.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu is continuously overseeing the situation and maintaining direct engagement with all relevant stakeholders to ensure quick and coordinated responses.

"Airlines are making appropriate operational arrangements in response to the evolving situation, with passenger safety and continuity of services remaining the primary considerations," said the ministry.

The DGCA has coordinated with relevant authorities to facilitate additional arrival and departure slots and to permit the use of Muscat International Airport as an enroute alternate airport for flights to/from destinations including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras-al-Khaimah, Al-Alan, Fujairah, Sharjah, Jeddah and Medinah.

The ministry said it is maintaining regular coordination with airlines and other concerned stakeholders to ensure that passenger movement continues in an orderly manner.

Airfares are also being closely monitored to ensure that ticket prices remain reasonable and that there is no undue surge during this period.

Passengers are advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding flight timings and travel arrangements. The Ministry will continue to review the situation and provide further information as necessary.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some good news! My brother is stuck in Riyadh and we were worried sick. Air India starting flights from tomorrow is a huge relief. Hope the coordination with DGCA for extra slots works smoothly on the ground.
A
Aman W
While the intent is good, I hope this isn't just for show. "Closely monitoring" airfares is one thing, but we've all seen how prices skyrocket during crises. The ministry needs to be strict and name & shame airlines that price gouge.
S
Sarah B
The logistical planning here is impressive – using Muscat as an alternate airport for so many destinations shows foresight. Passenger safety should always be the top priority, and this seems to be the focus.
K
Karthik V
Good move. The Gulf region is like a second home for millions of Indians. In times of uncertainty, the government's role in ensuring connectivity is vital. Hope Akasa's 2026 plans aren't disrupted by this.
M
Meera T
The number of people relying on these flights is huge – 7,400 passengers in just one day! My husband works in Dubai and I'm constantly checking news. This update at least gives a clear picture of what the airlines are doing. Thank you.

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