Civil Aviation Minister: 4,335 Indian, 1,187 Foreign Flights Cancelled Amid West Asia Conflict
Indian and foreign carriers cancel thousands of flights due to West Asia airspace closures; safety remains top priority.
Indian airlines have cancelled 4,335 flights and foreign carriers 1,187 flights due to airspace closures in West Asia caused by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu informed the Rajya Sabha on Monday.
Speaking during Question Hour, the minister emphasised that passenger and operational safety remain the top priority. “There is no reason for us to operate in this area when the airspace itself is closed,” he said, noting that the closures have significantly disrupted flight schedules in the region.
Naidu said the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are maintaining continuous coordination with regulators in the affected countries. Operations have resumed whenever slots were available, enabling the safe travel of 2,19,780 passengers despite the ongoing crisis.
Also Read: Maharashtra Budget 2026 Targets 1,200 km Metro, 6,000 km Expressways, and AI-Driven City Management
The minister highlighted that Indian carriers and foreign airlines have been adjusting their schedules in real time to avoid unsafe zones, and authorities continue to monitor airspace conditions closely. He said efforts are ongoing to reopen air routes, but regular operations can only resume once safety and airspace availability are assured.
This disruption comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, which has affected both commercial and passenger aviation globally. Airlines have been forced to reroute flights, leading to widespread cancellations and rescheduling.
Officials added that the DGCA, in collaboration with international authorities, continues to oversee operations to ensure passenger safety and minimise inconvenience. While some airspace remains closed, authorities are working to restore normal travel routes as soon as conditions permit.
Also Read: Akasa Air Adds Fuel Surcharge of Up to ₹1,300 as West Asia War Sends ATF Prices Soaring
