West Asia tensions disrupt flights; airlines adjust schedules
BusinessLine·2026-03-04 04:21

Core Viewpoint - Leading airlines are adjusting their flight schedules and services in response to the ongoing volatile situation in West Asia, prioritizing passenger safety and connectivity [1][2]. Group 1: Air India - Air India has extended the suspension of most flights to and from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until 2359 hrs IST on March 4, 2026, while monitoring the situation closely [2]. - The airline continues to operate flights to North America, the UK, and Europe as scheduled, utilizing alternative routings over available airspaces in the Middle East [3]. - Air India is offering affected customers alternative travel arrangements, full refunds, or complimentary rescheduling options to mitigate inconvenience [3]. Group 2: Other Airlines - Air Canada is increasing the frequency of its Toronto-Delhi service from March 7 to 21 and using larger aircraft on certain Toronto-London-Mumbai flights to provide more routing options [4]. - SpiceJet announced the operation of eight additional special flights from Fujairah (UAE) to India to assist stranded or affected passengers [5]. - IndiGo is launching thrice-weekly non-stop flights between Chennai and Reunion Island starting April 29, marking it as the airline's 46th international destination [6][7].

West Asia tensions disrupt flights; airlines adjust schedules - Reportify