As aviation activity gradually normalizes, airlines across the region say they are closely monitoring developments and adjusting schedules to ensure safe and efficient travel for passengers
PRAVASISAMWAD.COM
Air travel between India and West Asia continues to stabilize, with several carriers increasing their flight operations as regional travel demand gradually rebounds. Airlines from both India and the United Arab Emirates are operating scheduled and additional services to reconnect passengers with key destinations across the Gulf region.
On March 12, Indian carriers Air India and Air India Express together operated 58 flights linking India with West Asian cities, including destinations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. The services include a mix of scheduled commercial flights and additional non-scheduled operations arranged to meet passenger demand.
According to airline schedules, Air India operated one round-trip service from Delhi to Jeddah and two from Mumbai to the Saudi city. Air India Express deployed multiple flights to the region as well, including routes connecting Bengaluru and Kozhikode with Jeddah. Additional flights linked Delhi, Mumbai and Kozhikode with Muscat, reflecting strong travel demand between India and Oman.
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The carriers also scheduled special non-scheduled services to Riyadh, including flights from Mumbai and Kozhikode
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In addition, authorities approved the possibility of up to 40 additional flights to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, subject to slot availability and regulatory clearance
Meanwhile, UAE-based airlines—including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia—continue operating regular services linking major Gulf hubs such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah with cities across India.
Budget airline IndiGo also resumed operations to nine Middle East destinations, along with select routes to Europe. The airline said schedules may continue to evolve depending on operational approvals and regional safety assessments.
Airlines have urged travellers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport as schedules could change at short notice. Passenger support teams are assisting customers affected by disruptions, including providing rebooking options and alternative travel arrangements.
Air India and Air India Express have offered passengers flexibility to rebook flights without additional charges or request refunds on temporarily suspended routes. The airlines are also using digital channels—including mobile notifications and WhatsApp assistance services—to communicate with affected travellers.
International flights to other global destinations—including North America, Europe, Australia, Sri Lanka and the Maldives—are continuing as planned, with additional services scheduled between March 10 and March 18.
