Indian airlines cancel flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi amid escalating west Asia tensions, advisory issued

Abu Dhabi (The Uttam Hindu): The ongoing tension in West Asia is affecting everything from transportation to education and security. Flight operations are also being disrupted amid ongoing attacks from both sides. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates has issued a new advisory and shared information regarding flight schedules. The airlines have informed that there have been changes in flight operations for March 15. Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet and Indigo have cancelled several flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

The Indian Embassy wrote, "Based on the directives of the UAE Civil Aviation Authority, airlines are issuing revised and limited flight schedules. Limited flights will be operated from the airports of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, RAK (Ras Al Khaimah), Sharjah, and Fujairah to various destinations in India. For more information, the respective airlines can be contacted."

Earlier, Indian Ambassador to the UAE Deepak Mittal, accompanied by CG Satish Sivan, met with representatives of the Indian community in the UAE and discussed the community's well-being. They were assured that the Embassy and Consulates are fully operational. A 24x7 helpline is available to assist Indians in need.

Regarding flight operations to the UAE, Air India said, "Following the directives of the UAE Airports Authority, Air India and Air India Express are further restricted in their ad-hoc operations till March 15, 2026. All Air India Express flights scheduled for today to Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah have been cancelled."

The airline further stated that both airlines will now operate one round trip each on the Delhi-Dubai sector. These flights will be operated based on slot availability and operational conditions. Guests booked on cancelled or temporarily suspended services can rebook for a later date at no extra charge or receive a full refund. Air India and Air India Express regret the inconvenience caused to passengers due to the current situation. "We are committed to bringing stranded guests home safely as soon as possible," the airline said.

IndiGo has also cancelled its flights to Dubai. Passengers are advised to check their flight status before leaving home. The airline is working with authorities to gradually resume services, including some routes to Europe.

SpiceJet also canceled flights

SpiceJet also stated in a post that due to the deteriorating situation in West Asia, further restrictions have been imposed on flights to and from Dubai, which may result in changes to flight schedules. The airline is notifying passengers via phone and email.