Services Steadily Restored
Following a period of extensive airspace restrictions and flight suspensions due to ongoing regional conflicts, air travel between India and West Asia
is slowly returning to normalcy. Several major Indian carriers, including Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo, have successfully recommenced their flight operations to Dubai, a vital hub for many travelers. This resumption comes after obtaining necessary approvals from the relevant aviation authorities, signaling a cautious return to regular schedules. While services to Dubai are now operational, it's important to note that flights to certain other cities within West Asia remain temporarily suspended as airspace limitations persist due to the volatile geopolitical situation in the region.
Air India's Extensive Schedule
On March 19, a significant number of flights connecting India and West Asia were scheduled, underscoring the gradual recovery of air services. Air India alone planned for a total of 48 flights to and from the West Asian region. This comprehensive schedule comprised 16 regular, scheduled flights designed to maintain consistent connectivity, alongside an additional 32 non-scheduled services. These flights are crucial for facilitating travel and trade, with many of them specifically routing passengers to and from Dubai, a key destination for both business and leisure travelers.
IndiGo and Akasa Air Updates
IndiGo confirmed the resumption of its flight operations to and from Dubai, stating, "Following the latest update from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, flight operations to and from Dubai have resumed with effect from 1600 hrs (DXB local time) on 18 March 2026." Similarly, Akasa Air has begun a phased restoration of its services, carefully assessing the evolving safety conditions. The airline announced that flights between Riyadh and Mumbai would recommence from the specified date. Furthermore, it continues to operate its existing routes, connecting Jeddah with several Indian cities including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi, and Kozhikode. However, Akasa Air's operations to Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Kuwait are still suspended until March 21, indicating that the full restoration of services across the region is an ongoing process.
