Indian carriers plan to operate 58 flights to the Middle East on March 4, 2026, signaling gradual restoration after widespread cancellations due after US-Israel strikes on Iran and Iranian counterattacks closed airspaces.
Scheduled Operations
IndiGo will handle 30 flights, while Air India and Air India Express cover 23, using alternative routings to bypass restricted zones. On March 3, 24 Indian flights ran alongside 9 from Emirates and Etihad, with special measures aiding stranded passengers.
The Civil Aviation Ministry monitors fares to curb surges and coordinates with foreign authorities and Indian missions abroad.
Air India Adjustments
Air India extended suspensions to UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until 23:59 IST on March 4 but eyes progressive resumption. Relief flights like Air India Express’s Dubai-Bangalore and Abu Dhabi-Delhi runs prioritize repatriation for thousands of Indians.
Broader Crisis Response
This aviation push aligns with PM Modi’s Gulf diplomacy, Russia’s energy pledges, and Putin’s de-escalation talks with Gulf leaders. Stockpiles buffer energy risks as flights reconnect expatriates and trade links.
