Airlines have cancelled or rerouted hundreds of flights over the past three days, with more changes expected on Monday, March 2.
Europe and Middle East routes impacted
Routes to major European destinations such as London, Zurich, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Milan and Vienna have been among the worst affected due to airspace closures and the need to avoid conflict-sensitive zones.
Airlines are operating longer alternative routes, increasing flying time and creating scheduling challenges.
International carriers have also adjusted operations. Qatar Airways has suspended services in the region until March 2, while Etihad Airways cancelled flights to and from Abu Dhabi until the same date.
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However, CNBC-TV18 has learnt that Etihad is expected to resume flights to India on March 2.
Delhi Airport issues advisory
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport has issued a passenger advisory in view of the developments.
“Due to the evolving political situation in the Middle East, westbound international flights continue to experience operational disruptions and schedule changes,” the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) said in an advisory on March 2 at 8 am.
Passengers have been urged to check the latest updates with their respective airlines before leaving for the airport. “For real-time flight information, please visit our official website: www.newdelhiairport.in.”
The airport further advised travellers to rely solely on official communication channels for verified updates.
Passenger Advisory issued at 08:00 hrs.#DelhiAirport #PassengerAdvisory #DELAdvisory@MoCA_GoI @DGCAIndia pic.twitter.com/cVZVKFdwqz
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) March 2, 2026
Over 400 flights cancelled
At least 410 flights operated by Indian carriers were cancelled at Delhi airport on February 28 amid rising regional tensions. The disruption persisted on March 1, with at least 350 flights scrapped, as per a report by News18.
On March 2, a minimum of 300 flights are likely to be affected as airlines contend with operational constraints and extended routings.
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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is coordinating with airlines and relevant agencies to manage the evolving situation. The Passenger Assistance Control Room is also overseeing grievance redressal and facilitating support for affected travellers.
Air India suspends flights
Air India has extended the suspension of services to and from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Qatar until 11:59 pm on March 2, citing safety and operational concerns.
The airline has cancelled select Europe-bound services on March 2 and said that some North America and Europe flights will operate via alternative routes, including technical halts in Rome.
“In view of the continuing situation in the Middle East, Air India has extended the suspension of all flights to and from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until 2359 hrs IST on 2 March 2026.Additionally, select flights to Europe scheduled on 2 March…
— Air India (@airindia) March 1, 2026
