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Air India Extends Middle East Flight Suspensions Amid Ongoing Airspace Restrictions
Air India has extended the suspension of flights to and from several Middle Eastern nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar, until 11:59 PM IST on March 2, 2026, as regional airspace disruptions persist. This follows ongoing tensions and continued restrictions on key aviation corridors that airlines rely on between India, Europe, and North America.
These changes are affecting thousands of passengers globally, with route cancellations, extended travel times, and rerouted services now part of the evolving aviation landscape.
Middle East Routes Suspended Until March 2
For travellers heading to major Gulf cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Tel Aviv, Riyadh, and others, Air India has halted all flights until at least the March 2 deadline. Airlines globally are adjusting operations in response to continued airspace closures across key Middle Eastern countries — significantly disrupting regular schedules.
Passengers on these suspended routes are being notified directly by the airline, and many are being offered alternate options or refunds.
Europe Flights Cancelled for March 2
Air India’s disruption isn’t limited to Middle East services. The airline has also cancelled select flights between India and Europe scheduled for March 2. Affected routes include:
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Amritsar ↔ Birmingham (AI117 / AI114)
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Delhi ↔ Zurich (AI151 / AI152)
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Delhi ↔ Copenhagen (AI157 / AI158)
These flights have been cancelled due to the ongoing uncertainties in regional airspace, and impacted passengers are being contacted about rebooking or refund options.
US & North America Routes Still Operating — But Rerouted
While some flights are cancelled entirely, Air India has confirmed that services to the United States and other European destinations will continue to operate, though via alternative paths that avoid restricted Middle Eastern airspace.
Notably, flights bound for New York (JFK) and Newark (EWR) will now include technical stops at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport. These are operational fuel and service halts — not layovers — but they do extend total journey time for travellers on these routes.
Detouring around restricted regions adds flying time and can impact passenger connections and schedules.
Why These Changes Are Happening
The ongoing suspension and rerouting are being driven by continued airspace restrictions and safety concerns in parts of the Middle East. Airline operations teams constantly monitor official airspace notices (NOTAMs) and military advisories to determine which corridors are safe for overflight.
When vital corridors are restricted — especially those that act as shortcuts over West Asia — airlines must choose alternate routes that are longer and costlier but crucial for passenger safety.
Passenger Options: Refunds & Flexibility
Air India is offering passengers affected by the disruptions full flexibility. If you booked your travel on or before 28 February 2026 for journeys scheduled up to 5 March 2026, you are eligible to:
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Reschedule without extra charges, or
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Claim a full refund to your original payment method
These measures are aimed at reducing inconvenience during the evolving situation.
Travel Tips for Affected Passengers
Check Your Flight Status Before Heading Out
With cancellations and reroutes still happening rapidly, always verify your booking directly on the airline website or app.
Allow Extra Time for Connections
Rerouted flights and technical stops might increase total travel time, impacting connections.
Contact Airlines for Support
Customer support can provide the latest updates, rescheduling options, and refund procedures.