Over 10,000 Flights Cancelled By Indian Airlines Since West Asia Crisis Began

Indian carriers have cancelled over 10,000 flights since the onset of the West Asia crisis, according to Asanga Chuba Ao, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation. Daily operations between India and the Gulf region have plummeted from an average of 300–350 flights to just 80–90, causing significant disruptions to airline schedules, revenue, and operational planning.

Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing on Tuesday, Chuba highlighted the pressures facing airlines, noting that roughly 50% of all international flights by Indian carriers operate in the affected region. “International flights are a key source of revenue for airlines. The ongoing crisis has clearly impacted their financial performance, although carriers have shown resilience,” he said.

Flights to Europe and North America are now taking longer alternate routes to avoid conflict zones, increasing travel time and operational costs. Airlines have imposed distance-based surcharges to offset higher expenses, particularly for Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), which accounts for around 40% of an airline’s operational costs. Chuba added that relaxations granted to crew under Flight Duty Time Limitations may be revisited as the situation evolves.

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To mitigate the impact on cargo and supply chains, foreign carriers including Emirates, Kuwait Airways, and Jazeera Airways have been allowed to operate passenger aircraft for cargo transport during the disruptions. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is coordinating with stakeholders to support airlines and control costs, which are eventually reflected in passenger fares.

Despite international disruptions, domestic aviation has remained strong. Chuba reported that more than 470,000 passengers traveled on 3,300 domestic flights yesterday, with high passenger loads, and that fare increases on domestic routes have been moderate.

The ongoing West Asia crisis underscores the vulnerability of international aviation to geopolitical tensions. Airlines face challenges from route deviations, rising fuel costs, and flight cancellations, while the ministry continues efforts to support operational stability and limit the financial impact on both carriers and passengers.

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