Home / War and Conflict / Middle East Crisis Grounds 1,600+ Flights
Middle East Crisis Grounds 1,600+ Flights
4 Mar
Summary
- Over 1,600 international flights cancelled due to Middle East crisis.
- Airlines are rerouting flights and adjusting schedules to avoid restricted airspace.
- Government monitors airfares to prevent undue price surges during disruptions.
Airlines have cancelled more than 1,600 international flights as of March 4, 2026, due to the escalating Middle East crisis. This significant disruption impacts travel as several airspaces remain closed in the region. Indian carriers alone have seen 1,221 flights cancelled, with foreign carriers accounting for 388 cancellations.
In response, airlines are implementing calibrated schedule adjustments and utilizing alternative routings to avoid restricted airspace. Indian carriers, including IndiGo and Air India, are planning 58 flights for March 4. Special measures are in place to assist stranded passengers, with airlines deploying extra capacity and coordinating with international aviation authorities.
The civil aviation ministry is maintaining close contact with airlines, monitoring airfares to prevent surges, and ensuring transparent communication with passengers regarding refunds and rescheduling. Air India has extended its flight suspension to and from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until March 4, 2026.
