UAE Flights Update: Are They Safe? Best Airlines to Choose Now

 

If you're planning to travel via the UAE, here’s the real ground situation based on recent traveler experiences.

Most passengers report that flights are operating smoothly, with successful departures from cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kochi. Dubai transits are largely hassle-free, and there’s no major panic on the ground. However, the risk is not zero.

The biggest concern right now is last-minute cancellations or delays, especially affecting connecting flights. Travelers may get stuck in hubs like Dubai or Abu Dhabi if schedules suddenly change. Airlines are also reducing frequency—operating fewer flights per route due to lower demand.

When it comes to airline choices, Emirates and Etihad Airways remain the most reliable, offering flexible booking and better support. Qatar Airways is a strong option but has limited availability. IndiGo and Air India serve as backup options, though prices are high and schedules less predictable. FlyDubai, however, is currently the least stable and best avoided for fixed plans.

Another key insight: travelers booking through agents face fewer refund and rescheduling issues compared to direct bookings.

Final takeaway: Travel is possible and mostly safe—but flexibility is crucial. Always keep a backup plan, allow buffer time, and be prepared for unexpected changes.

Latest Airline Updates for UAE & Middle East Travel (April 2026)

 

Emirates

Passengers can review booking changes, accept new flights, or switch to alternatives within 72 hours of travel. Emirates allows up to nine changes under its waiver (valid till April 30). Travelers should keep contact details updated for real-time alerts. If booked between Feb 28 and April 30, the airline will attempt automatic rebooking, even for connecting flights. Voluntary rebooking is available till June 15.

Etihad Airways

Flights are operating but not fully stable. Some days run smoothly, while others see cancellations. Decisions are being made dynamically based on airspace and safety conditions.

Qatar Airways

No major changes till April 15, with expansion plans targeting 120 destinations by May. However, ticket availability remains limited.

Important Travel Tip (Don’t Ignore This)

If you're planning Middle East travel right now, travel insurance is a must. Medical emergencies can cost ₹2–3 lakh easily, and you can’t purchase insurance after arrival.

Frequent travelers already rely on insurance—it’s affordable (sometimes cheaper than a meal at the airport) and provides peace of mind. Always secure coverage before your trip.

Jazeera Airways

Rapid expansion across India with multiple weekly routes. Dubai operations resumed from March 31, with strong connectivity across India and Pakistan.

Gulf Air

Temporarily expanding its network via Dammam, covering cities like Istanbul, Athens, London, and Paris through April.

Air India

Operating limited flights (42 on April 4), mostly ad-hoc for UAE routes. Saudi routes remain relatively stable.

IndiGo

Running selective Middle East flights, reviewed daily with authorities.

SpiceJet

No new flights announced till April 4.

Akasa Air

Operating select routes, while Doha, Riyadh, and Kuwait flights remain suspended till April 12. Waivers for changes and cancellations are active.

Middle East Flight Updates April 2026: UAE, Oman, Qatar Latest Status

 

 The aviation situation across the Middle East remains unstable due to ongoing airspace restrictions and operational disruptions. Airlines are adjusting schedules, cancelling flights, and operating limited services.

Here’s a complete, simplified update for travelers 

Singapore Airlines Cancels Dubai Flights

• Flights between Singapore and Dubai are impacted
• Affected routes:
  • SQ494 (Singapore → Dubai)
  • SQ495 (Dubai → Singapore)
• Passengers are being offered:
  • Alternative travel options
  • Full refunds

Oman Air Flight Suspensions

• Flights cancelled until 15 April 2026
• Affected destinations include:
  • Dubai
  • Bahrain
  • Doha
  • Kuwait
  • Baghdad
  • Copenhagen
• Reason: Regional airspace closures 

Flydubai Flight Status

• Flights are operational but limited
• Current situation:
  • ❌ Many cancellations
  • ⏳ Delays
  • 🔄 Rescheduling
• India routes impacted:
  • Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata
• Some Pakistan routes still active

👉 Important: Not operating at full capacity

Air Arabia Latest Update

• Operating with a limited network only
• Flights running under:
  • Special operations
  • Temporary schedules
• India routes partially active:
  Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Chennai, Hyderabad

👉 Regular schedules still NOT restored

Air India & Air India Express Update

• UAE flights mostly ad-hoc (not regular)
• Current status:
  • Dubai: No scheduled flights
  • Abu Dhabi: Limited ad-hoc flights
  • Sharjah: Select operations

✅ Active Routes

• Muscat (Oman) – Scheduled flights running
• Saudi Arabia:
  • Jeddah
  • Riyadh

❌ Fully Suspended

• Bahrain
• Qatar
• Dammam

IndiGo & SpiceJet

• IndiGo: No flights operating (as of April 3)
• SpiceJet: Flights cancelled until April 4

Qatar Airways

• No major changes until April 15
• Planning expansion to 120 destinations by May

India Routes Covered

Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi

Salam Air Suspension

• Flights suspended till:
  • Iran: August 31, 2026
  • Other regions (Iraq, Lebanon, Qatar, Kuwait, Sharjah): May 30

Jazeera Airways Expansion

Despite disruptions, new routes launching via Dammam:

🇮🇳 India Routes

• Kuwait → Madurai (from April 16)
• Kuwait → Goa (from April 15)
• Kuwait → Coimbatore (from April 17)

🇵🇰 Pakistan Routes

• Peshawar
• Sialkot

👉 Flights operating on limited weekly schedules

Gulf Air Updates

• Flights extended for multiple destinations:
  • London: till April 11
  • Paris: till April 12
  • Istanbul & Athens: till April 29
  • India routes: till April 30

Key Takeaways for Travelers

• UAE flights are NOT fully normal yet
• Most airlines are operating:
  • Limited flights
  • Special or ad-hoc services
• Full restoration may take time
• Always check flight status before departure

UAE Re-entry Rule Ends: Flight Updates & Refund Guide 2026

UAE Re-entry Rule Update: Deadline Over

The UAE government had introduced a temporary relief for residents whose visas expired while they were stranded outside the country due to flight disruptions and airspace closures.

This rule mainly applied to visas that expired on or after February 28, 2026.

What Was Allowed?

• UAE residents could re-enter without applying for a new visa
• No fines or penalties for overstaying due to travel issues

However, this special exemption has now ended.

Important Update After March 31, 2026

• Travelers must now apply for a new entry visa
• Automatic re-entry is no longer allowed
• Missing the deadline means losing the exemption benefit

Best Airlines to Travel Right Now

Due to ongoing disruptions in the Middle East, choosing the right airline is crucial.

🟢 Most Reliable Airlines

• Qatar Airways
• Etihad Airways
• Air India (ad-hoc + scheduled flights)
• IndiGo (multiple Gulf routes)
• Ethiopian Airlines and European carriers
• Southeast Asia routes (most stable option currently)

🟡 Limited Operations

• Emirates (reduced schedule)
• Air Arabia
• flydubai

🔴 Airlines to Avoid (Temporary)

• SpiceJet (cancelled operations until April 2, 2026)

New Flights to India from Middle East

Several airlines are expanding routes to India:

Jazeera Airways New Routes

• Tiruchirappalli flights starting April 7, 2026
• Bengaluru route starting April 9, 2026
• Mangaluru flights (twice weekly)
• Kannur flights starting April 14, 2026

These routes improve connectivity between Kuwait and South India.

Air India & IndiGo Route Expansion

Air India

Operating both scheduled and ad-hoc flights including:

• Delhi, Mumbai → Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Jeddah
• Kochi, Mangalore, Kannur → Gulf destinations
• Amritsar → Sharjah

IndiGo

Expanding routes from major cities:

• Mumbai → Medina, Riyadh, Dubai, Muscat
• Delhi → Abu Dhabi, Jeddah
• Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi → Gulf routes

Airline Refund Policies (2026 Guide)

Refund policies vary depending on fare type, airline, and situation.

Key Things to Know

• Refund processing may be delayed due to high demand
• Cancellation fees may apply
• Airline cancellations usually qualify for full refunds
• Agent bookings may take longer and include service charges
• Some tickets are non-refundable 

For more info. Watch the full video in English-Subtitles for all airlines refund policy.

Dubai Airport Drone Incident: Flights Continue Amid Travel Alerts

Dubai Airport Drone Incident and Flight Updates – March 2026

Travelers across the Middle East are closely monitoring developments after a drone incident near Dubai International Airport (DXB). While the event raised safety concerns, airport authorities confirmed that flight operations continue normally, and the airport remains open.

At the same time, several Gulf airports are still adjusting operations following regional tensions and airspace disruptions, while airlines worldwide warn that ticket prices may rise due to higher fuel costs.

Here is a complete breakdown of the latest travel updates affecting Dubai Airport and international flights.

Drone Incident Near Dubai Airport

Authorities confirmed that two drones fell near Dubai International Airport on Wednesday morning, causing injuries to four individuals.

The injured include:

• Two Ghanaian nationals

• One Bangladeshi national

• One Indian national

Reports indicate that the Indian national sustained moderate injuries, while the others suffered minor injuries.

Despite the incident, Dubai Airport operations were not suspended, and flights continued to operate normally. Travelers transiting through Dubai should still check flight updates with their airlines, but DXB remains operational.

Regional Impact: Drone Attack Reported in Oman

Another security incident was reported in Oman’s Salalah port, where footage showed a drone striking an oil facility.

While the situation remains under monitoring, regional authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance across airports and energy infrastructure.

Qatar Flights Helping Stranded Passengers

Following earlier disruptions in regional airspace, more than 500 Indian passengers stranded in Qatar were able to travel home on March 11.

Flights operated by Qatar Airways carried passengers to:

• New Delhi

• Other destinations across India

Additional flights are scheduled to operate:

• March 12 – New Delhi and Mumbai

The Embassy of India in Qatar has also activated 24/7 helplines to assist Indian citizens with travel concerns.

Dubai Airport Operations Gradually Stabilizing

Airport authorities confirmed that Dubai Airports partially resumed operations on March 7 after earlier disruptions.

Flights are currently operating from:

• Dubai International Airport (DXB)

• Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

However, airline schedules remain reduced and are gradually expanding as regional airspace conditions stabilize.

Travelers are advised to monitor airline updates and allow extra time for their journey.

Sharjah Airport Introduces New Passenger Alert Service

Nearby Sharjah Airport has launched a useful new service to help passengers stay updated.

Travelers can now receive real-time flight alerts through multiple platforms, including:

• SMS notifications

• Email alerts

• Facebook Messenger

• Twitter notifications

This system allows passengers to quickly track flight delays or schedule changes.

Bahrain Issues Warning About Online Travel Scams

Authorities in Bahrain have issued an important advisory regarding travel scams circulating online.

Officials clarified that no embassy has authorized private travel agencies to transport passengers abroad during disruptions.

There have also been false rumors on social media claiming that Bahrain captured an Indian spy working for Mossad. Authorities confirmed that this claim is completely false.

Travelers should rely only on official government announcements and verified airline updates.

Delhi Airport Advisory for Travelers

Passengers traveling through Delhi Airport have also been advised to stay alert for schedule changes.

Travelers experiencing delays should:

• Check airport display screens for updated flight and immigration information

• Monitor airline notifications for schedule changes

• Consider booking airport hotels for long layovers or disruptions

These steps can help travelers manage unexpected delays more comfortably.

Global Airfares May Rise Due to Fuel Costs

Another major concern for travelers worldwide is rising ticket prices.

Airlines are introducing fuel surcharges after a surge in global oil prices, partly linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Aviation fuel is one of the largest airline expenses, often accounting for around 40% of operating costs.

As fuel prices increase, airlines usually transfer part of this cost to passengers.

Estimated Fuel Surcharge Increases

Some airlines have introduced additional charges depending on travel distance:

• Southeast Asia routes – about ₹5,500 extra

• Africa routes – about ₹8,300 extra

• Europe routes – about ₹11,500 extra

• North America or Australia – nearly ₹18,400 extra

This means long-haul international travel could soon become significantly more expensive.

Airlines Already Raising Ticket Prices

Several airlines have already started adjusting their fares.

Airlines Increasing Surcharges

• Air India and Air India Express introduced fuel surcharge increases from March 12

• AirAsia adjusted fares across several routes

• Hong Kong Airlines increased surcharges by around 35%

• Qantas raised international fares by about 5%

• Thai Airways may increase ticket prices by 10–15%

Travel experts suggest that passengers planning international trips should book early before prices increase further.

Emirates Flight Operations

Following the partial reopening of regional airspace, Emirates is operating a reduced flight schedule.

Flights to India currently include:

• Ahmedabad

• Bangalore

• Chennai

• Delhi

• Hyderabad

• Kochi

• Kolkata

• Mumbai

• Thiruvananthapuram

More routes may gradually return in the coming days.

Etihad Airways Flight Schedule

Etihad Airways has also begun restoring flights to India.

March 13 Flights

• Ahmedabad

• Bangalore

• Chennai

• Cochin

• Delhi

• Hyderabad

• Kolkata

• Kozhikode

• Mumbai

March 14 Flights

• Ahmedabad

• Cochin

• Hyderabad

• Mumbai

• Delhi

• Chennai

• Kolkata

March 15 Flights

• Ahmedabad

• Bangalore

• Chennai

• Cochin

• Delhi

• Hyderabad

• Kolkata

• Trivandrum

• Mumbai

Additional flights are expected to operate until March 19.

Etihad Issues Online Scam Warning

Etihad Airways also warned passengers about fake social media accounts impersonating airline staff.

Scammers have reportedly sent fraudulent refund forms to passengers online.

The airline confirmed that it will never request the following through social media messages:

• Passwords

• One-time verification codes

• Payment details

Passengers should always verify information through official airline websites.

Other Airline Updates

Gulf Air

Flights remain temporarily suspended because Bahrain airspace is still closed. Operations will resume once the Bahrain Civil Aviation Authority confirms reopening.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways announced 29 special flights to assist passengers affected by disruptions.

India routes include:

• March 12 – Delhi

• March 13 – Mumbai and Delhi

Additional flights are scheduled between March 13 and March 17.

Indian Airline Updates

Air India & Air India Express

The airlines will operate 58 scheduled and special flights between India and West Asia on March 12, 2026.

Passengers traveling until March 31, 2026 may request:

• Free date changes

• Free cancellations

However, fare differences may still apply.

Passengers can contact support through:

• WhatsApp

• Airline website

• Mobile app

Akasa Air

Akasa Air will operate selected flights to Jeddah from:

• Ahmedabad

• Bengaluru

• Mumbai

• Kochi

• Kozhikode

Flights to Riyadh remain suspended until March 12, while services from Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Kuwait are suspended until March 15.

IndiGo

On March 12, 2026, IndiGo plans to operate flights to nine destinations across the Middle East, along with select routes to Europe.

What Travelers Should Do Now

If you are planning to travel through the Gulf region in the coming days:

• Monitor airline notifications regularly

• Arrive at airports earlier than usual

• Avoid unofficial travel offers circulating online

• Consider booking tickets earlier to avoid rising prices

Despite recent incidents, major airports including Dubai remain operational, and airlines are gradually restoring flight schedules.

Dubai Flights Resume Slowly as Kuwait Airport Shuts After Drone Attack- March 09, 2026

Dubai Flights Resume Slowly as Kuwait Airport Shuts After Drone Attack

The aviation situation in the Gulf region remains highly unpredictable as tensions in the Middle East continue to impact airports and airlines.

In the latest developments, the United Arab Emirates intercepted multiple missiles and drones, while Kuwait International Airport temporarily shut down civilian flights after a drone attack caused a fire at fuel tanks. These incidents have raised concerns among travellers, especially those flying between the Gulf and India.

Here is the latest travel update and what it means for passengers.

UAE Intercepts Missiles and Drones Amid Rising Tensions

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that air defence systems intercepted 16 ballistic missiles and 113 drones during the latest wave of attacks. Residents in several areas reported loud explosions, which authorities later clarified were the sound of air defence systems intercepting incoming threats.

Although the interceptions prevented major damage, the situation remains serious as the regional conflict continues to escalate.

Security officials confirmed that the UAE continues to monitor the situation closely while prioritizing the safety of residents and visitors.

Drone Strike Hits Kuwait International Airport

While the UAE managed to intercept most threats, Kuwait faced a direct attack on key infrastructure.

According to reports, two fuel storage tanks at Kuwait International Airport were targeted in a drone strike, triggering a major fire at the facility. Emergency teams quickly responded and managed to bring the blaze under control.

Authorities confirmed that the attack caused infrastructure damage, though there were no major casualties reported.

Due to safety concerns, civilian flight operations at Kuwait International Airport were suspended temporarily, forcing airlines to cancel or divert services.

Airlines Cancel Flights to Kuwait

Several international airlines reacted quickly by suspending flights to Kuwait.

Airlines that have cancelled or adjusted their services include:

• Emirates

• Qatar Airways

• Etihad Airways

• Turkish Airlines

Passengers with tickets to Kuwait may experience:

• Flight cancellations

• Rerouting through other Gulf airports

• Travel delays and schedule changes

Travellers are advised to check their airline’s official website or contact customer support before heading to the airport.

Dubai and UAE Airports Slowly Restart Flights

Despite the regional tensions, airports in the UAE have begun gradually restoring flight operations.

Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport are currently operating with limited flight schedules as part of a phased recovery plan.

Other UAE airports are also functioning with restrictions:

• Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi): restricted entry for confirmed passengers only

• Sharjah Airport: live schedule updates via SMS and social media

• Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah airports: limited flights operating

However, aviation authorities warn that flight schedules may change frequently depending on the security situation.

Airlines Operating Reduced Flight Schedules

Major airlines in the region are gradually rebuilding their networks.

Emirates

The airline is operating a reduced schedule from Dubai, advising passengers not to arrive at the airport without confirmed bookings.

Etihad Airways

Etihad has resumed limited services, operating flights to dozens of international destinations including several Indian cities.

Air Arabia and flydubai

These low-cost carriers have also restarted selected routes but are currently accepting only confirmed bookings.

Passengers using connecting flights should ensure their onward journey is operating before traveling.

Important Update for Travellers to India

Indian travellers flying from the Gulf region should be aware of possible disruptions.

Recent reports indicate that thousands of passengers have already returned to India on special or additional flights as airlines adjust their schedules during the crisis.

Authorities recommend:

• Checking flight status before leaving for the airport

• Contacting airlines for rebooking or refunds

• Following travel advisories issued by embassies

Airlines are also offering flexible travel options and free rescheduling for cancelled flights in many cases.

What Travellers Should Expect Next

Although flights are slowly resuming across the UAE, aviation experts say full recovery of flight operations could take time.

Travelers should prepare for:

• Reduced flight schedules

• Possible last-minute cancellations

• Route changes across Gulf airports

Until the security situation stabilizes, airline schedules may continue to change daily.

Related News from Travel Man Today

Dubai Airport Flights Resume: Doha Airspace Update March 3, 2026- Dubai Airport Flights Resume: Doha Airspace Update March 3, 2026

Dubai Airport Flights Resume Today? Doha Decision Key

Dubai Airport Flights Resume Today? Critical Doha Decision Ahead

Dubai International Airport (DXB) stands at a turning point on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, as airlines prepare for a possible phased restart of operations. However, the entire recovery plan depends on one major factor — whether Qatar reopens its airspace for transit.

With thousands of passengers stranded across the Gulf, aviation authorities and airlines are closely watching Doha’s expected announcement at 9:00 AM local time.

Why Doha’s Airspace Decision Is Crucial

The reopening of Qatari airspace is considered the most important development for regional aviation today. If Qatar restores transit corridors, Dubai Airport could shift from limited operations to gradual full resumption by evening.

If the airspace remains closed, airlines will continue operating under severe restrictions, delaying full recovery at DXB.

This development directly impacts connecting traffic, which forms a large share of Dubai’s international flight network.

Emirates Begins Limited Operations

Emirates has confirmed it will operate a limited number of flights starting from the evening of March 2.

The airline is prioritizing passengers with earlier bookings and will contact those rebooked directly. Travelers have been strictly advised not to visit the airport unless they receive confirmed departure notification.

All other Emirates flights remain suspended until further notice.

Flydubai Announces Phased Restart

Dubai’s government media office confirmed that flydubai has begun operating a limited schedule.

The airline is following a phased operational approach, gradually restoring services as regional airspace restrictions ease.

Etihad and Abu Dhabi Operations Update

Etihad Airways flight EY216 successfully landed in Abu Dhabi at 3:42 PM and later arrived in New Delhi at 8:31 PM, signaling controlled repatriation efforts.

However, regular commercial flights to and from Abu Dhabi remain officially cancelled, with only select approved flights operating.

Lufthansa also operated a departure from Abu Dhabi, and an Etihad service to Moscow departed under controlled clearance.

Qatar Airways Status

Flights to and from Doha remain temporarily suspended due to Qatari airspace closure as of March 3, 2026.

Qatar Airways is offering refunds and flexible rebooking options until March 10. The airline has not yet announced a full operational restart timeline.

Airlines Offering Refunds and Waivers

Several airlines are currently offering full refunds or flexible rescheduling:

IndiGo has cancelled Middle East flights until March 5 and is offering free rescheduling or refunds for bookings made on or before February 28, valid until March 7.

Akasa Air has suspended flights to Abu Dhabi, Doha, Kuwait, and Riyadh until March 4, but is operating select services to Jeddah from Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

SpiceJet cancelled multiple Middle East flights on March 3.

Air India has extended suspension of Middle East flights until 11:59 PM IST on March 3. Flights to North America and Europe are operating via alternate routings, with technical stops in Rome for New York (JFK) and Newark services.

Middle East Flight Cancellations So Far

The scale of disruption remains significant:

February 28 – 1,400 flights cancelled
March 1 – 3,400 cancelled
March 2 – 3,400 cancelled
March 3 – 1,300 cancelled (so far)

These figures highlight the magnitude of the Gulf aviation crisis.

Dubai Airport Official Advisory

Dubai Airports confirmed that limited airport operations resumed on March 2, with a small number of flights operating from DXB and DWC.

Passengers must not travel to the airport without confirmed departure details from their airline.

Remote and city check-in services across Dubai remain temporarily closed. Travelers must manage bookings online or through airline apps.

Security remains heightened, and access to terminals is restricted to passengers with active flight confirmations.

Ministry of Civil Aviation Update

India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation reported 357 flight cancellations on March 2 and stated that authorities are working to assist stranded passengers.

What Happens Next?

The 9:00 AM Doha announcement will determine the pace of recovery at Dubai Airport.

If Qatar reopens transit corridors, DXB may move toward gradual full resumption by evening.

If not, limited and phased operations will likely continue for several more days.

Based on current trends, aviation analysts expect regional flight schedules to stabilize around March 10–11, provided airspace restrictions ease.

Related News from Travel Man Today

For more detailed updates on airline suspensions and rerouted long-haul services, read: Air India Extends Middle East Cancellations; Rerouted via Rome 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Air India Extends Middle East Flight Cancellations, Reroutes US Routes via Rome

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:

• Amritsar ↔ Birmingham (AI117 / AI114)

• Delhi ↔ Zurich (AI151 / AI152)

• 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:

• Reschedule without extra charges, or

• 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.