West Asia Conflict: 24 Indian Flights Operate, 58 More Scheduled as Airlines Reroute Amid Airspace Restrictions

Despite rising tensions in West Asia, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) confirmed on Tuesday that Indian carriers successfully operated 24 flights across the conflict-hit region. The ministry further announced that 58 additional flights are scheduled for Wednesday as airlines cautiously resume services using alternative air routes.

Officials said the move reflects a gradual stabilisation of aviation operations even as the geopolitical situation remains tense.

IndiGo and Air India Lead Flight Operations

According to MoCA, IndiGo is set to operate 30 flights on Wednesday, while Air India and Air India Express will jointly operate 23 services.

The ministry clarified that airlines are making “calibrated adjustments” to flight schedules by rerouting aircraft to avoid restricted airspace zones. These alternative paths are being used to prioritise passenger safety while maintaining connectivity between India and key West Asian destinations.

Over 1,600 Flights Cancelled Due to Airspace Curbs

The resumption comes after massive flight disruptions triggered by recent US and Israeli strikes in Iran. As of March 3, a total of 1,221 flights operated by Indian carriers and 388 flights by foreign airlines had been cancelled due to airspace closures and security concerns.

The regional escalation reportedly led to the death of several senior Iranian figures, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, further intensifying tensions across West Asia. Following the strikes, many international airlines either suspended or diverted services to avoid conflict zones.

Government Steps Up Assistance for Stranded Indians

MoCA stated that the government is taking special measures to assist Indian citizens stranded in affected countries. Extra flights are being deployed where necessary, and coordination is underway with foreign aviation authorities and Indian embassies abroad.

On Tuesday, Air India operated a Dubai-Delhi flight that brought back 149 stranded passengers. Meanwhile, tourists from Telangana, Hyderabad and Andhra Pradesh who remain stuck in Bahrain have appealed for urgent evacuation assistance.

PM Modi Engages With West Asian Leaders

Amid the escalating crisis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively engaging with regional leaders to ensure the safety of Indian nationals. On Wednesday, he held discussions with the Sultan of Oman and the Crown Prince of Kuwait.

Earlier, PM Modi had also spoken with leaders of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, expressing concern over the escalating violence and emphasising the need to protect Indian citizens.

With air traffic slowly resuming and diplomatic engagement ongoing, the government has reiterated that passenger safety and national interest remain top priorities during the unfolding West Asia crisis.