Airlines across the Middle East are responding in very different ways to the ongoing disruptions caused by the regional conflict. Air India is adding dozens of extra services to help stranded passengers reach the Gulf while British Airways has extended major cancellations on key routes. These changes come as travelers face uncertainty and safety concerns in the skies.
Air India Steps Up to Support Stranded Passengers
Air India and its low cost arm Air India Express have moved quickly to ease the pressure on travelers stuck in the Gulf region. The carriers recently added 62 extra non scheduled flights to destinations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. These additional services target high demand routes where regular operations remain limited due to airspace restrictions.
On specific days like March 14 and 16 the group operated dozens of special flights alongside their scheduled ones to cities such as Dubai Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. They continue regular services to Muscat and Jeddah where possible. This extra capacity has brought real relief to thousands of passengers who found themselves unable to fly home or onward after the initial wave of cancellations.
The move shows a clear focus on helping Indian travelers and the large expatriate community in the Gulf. Air India has also operated extra long haul flights to Europe and North America in recent weeks to maintain connectivity when traditional Middle East routes faced issues. Passengers with affected bookings can rebook without extra fees or request refunds under flexible policies.
These steps have helped clear backlogs and given people much needed options during a difficult period.
British Airways Extends Sharp Reductions in the Region
In contrast British Airways has taken a more cautious approach by extending cancellations across several important Middle East destinations. The airline has now suspended flights to Amman Bahrain Dubai and Tel Aviv until May 31. Services to Doha remain cancelled until April 30 with only a limited schedule possible afterward.2
Flights to Abu Dhabi have been cut until later in 2026. The airline cited ongoing uncertainty around airspace stability and safety as the main reasons for these extended reductions. British Airways has operated some repatriation flights from Muscat to London to assist customers already in the area but overall capacity in the region stays significantly lower than normal.
This decision affects both leisure and business travelers who rely on London as a major hub. Many passengers have had to rearrange plans or seek alternatives with other carriers. British Airways continues to review the situation daily and has urged customers to check their bookings through the official website or app before heading to the airport.
The contrast with carriers adding flights highlights how different airlines are weighing risks and operational challenges right now.
Gulf Carriers Adjust With Limited Schedules
Local airlines in the Gulf have also made big changes to their operations. Qatar Airways suspended most regular flights but began a revised limited schedule from March 18 through March 28. The airline says these flights offer more flexibility for passengers who need to travel. Travelers should book directly through the Qatar Airways website or app and avoid going to the airport without a confirmed ticket.
Oman Air has kept services to Amman Dubai Bahrain Doha Dammam and Kuwait cancelled until March 31 due to the situation. The airline advises passengers to manage bookings online for refunds or changes.
Other carriers like Emirates and Etihad have resumed some limited operations on certain routes but overall flight numbers across the region remain well below normal levels. Airspace closures and safety directives from authorities continue to shape these decisions.
Many airlines now allow complimentary rebooking up to late April or offer full refunds for bookings made before late February. Passengers should act quickly to secure new dates as demand stays high on available seats.
Traveler Advice and Practical Tips During Disruptions
Travelers planning trips to or through the Middle East should take several steps to protect their journeys. First check your airline app or website daily for updates since schedules can change with little notice. Second consider flexible tickets if possible even if they cost a bit more upfront.
Here are key tips for anyone affected:
- Contact your airline or travel agent immediately if your flight is cancelled
- Keep essential documents like passports and visas easily accessible
- Monitor official government travel advisories for your destination
- Build extra buffer days into your plans where you can
- Have backup arrangements for important meetings or events
Fuel prices have risen due to the conflict which may lead to higher surcharges on remaining flights. Some carriers have already announced phased increases. Booking early on available routes can help avoid last minute price spikes.
The situation has also increased flight times on many long haul routes as planes take longer paths to avoid restricted zones. Expect more fatigue on these journeys and plan rest time accordingly.
Broader Impact on Regional Air Travel
The conflict has created one of the biggest disruptions to Middle East aviation in recent years. Major hubs saw sharp drops in traffic with thousands of passengers affected in the first weeks. While some recovery is visible through extra flights and limited schedules full normal operations remain weeks or months away on many routes.
Indian carriers have played a notable role in maintaining links between the subcontinent and the Gulf where large numbers of workers and families depend on reliable air services. Their extra flights have not only helped individuals but also supported economic ties in the region.
International carriers from Europe and Asia continue to monitor developments closely. Some have rerouted flights or added technical stops to keep key long haul routes running. The ripple effects reach far beyond the Middle East with knock on delays at European and Asian airports.
Aviation experts note that restoring full confidence will take time even after airspace fully reopens. Airlines face higher costs and passengers may remain cautious about travel plans for some time.
This period has tested the resilience of the global air network and the adaptability of carriers big and small. While challenges persist the efforts by airlines like Air India to add capacity show a commitment to keeping people connected when it matters most.
The coming weeks will reveal how quickly the industry can return to more stable patterns. For now travelers and airlines alike must navigate carefully and stay informed as the situation develops. Many people have shared stories of long waits and sudden changes but also of helpful staff and successful rebookings that got them home safely.
