The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has said that as many as 444 flights are expected to be cancelled on March 1 due to ongoing airspace closures over Iran and parts of the Middle East.
The disruption follows a major escalation in the region, which has led to restrictions on key international flight routes. A day earlier, on February 28, around 410 flights operated by domestic carriers were cancelled due to similar constraints.
Airports on high alert, passenger assistance ramped up
In response to the situation, major airports across India have been placed on operational alert to manage potential diversions and ensure smooth passenger handling.
The DGCA said that passenger assistance, airline coordination, and crowd management at terminals are being closely monitored, with senior officials deployed on the ground.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation’s Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) is actively tracking passenger grievances and facilitating quick resolution. On February 28, AirSewa recorded 216 complaints, of which 105 were resolved the same day.
Airlines asked to monitor advisories, ensure safety
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed all Indian airlines operating international services to continuously monitor airspace advisories, Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), and route restrictions issued by relevant authorities.
Airlines have been instructed to reroute or divert flights as necessary, in line with global safety protocols and contingency planning measures.
“The safety of passengers and crew remains paramount,” the ministry said, adding that the situation is under constant review.
Coordination with airports to manage impact
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airport operators have been advised to maintain close coordination with airlines to manage ground operations effectively. This includes ensuring availability of parking bays, passenger amenities, crew logistics, and immigration support.
Authorities said all stakeholders are working together to ensure orderly handling of affected passengers and minimise inconvenience amid the evolving situation.
The aviation regulator added that further updates will be issued as the situation develops.
India assures visa relief to stranded foreign travellers
Meanwhile, in view of flight cancellations following the escalating security situation in the Middle East, India on Sunday asked foreign nationals in the country to approach relevant authorities for visa extensions.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an advisory for foreign nationals impacted by the travel disruptions.
The MEA urged foreign nationals to contact their nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if they require assistance with visa extensions or need to regularise their stay.
“All foreign nationals in India, who have had to change their travel plans due to the ongoing developments in the West Asia region and need assistance with extension of their visa or to regularise their stay, are requested to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office,” it said.
The MEA said the FRROs concerned will extend assistance. It is not immediately clear how many foreign tourists are stranded in India due to the flight cancellations.