West Asia conflict prompts Indian airline cancellations and schedule cuts
By Matteo Floris
Last updated on 2 March 2026
Indian carriers canceled hundreds of flights between February 28 and March 1 following airspace closures across multiple West Asia countries. IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air adjusted schedules, with IndiGo suspending roughly 300 weekly West Asia flights and trimming Europe and Central Asia routes. India’s Civil Aviation Ministry activated a Passenger Assistance Control Room, addressing 411 grievances. Operations remain under coordination as the situation develops.
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Flights operated by several Indian airlines have been disrupted following airspace closures across parts of West Asia. According to the report, airspace restrictions affected 11 countries, including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Oman. In response, Indian carriers canceled hundreds of flights during February 28 to March 1.
The affected airlines named in the report are IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. IndiGo has suspended around 300 weekly flights serving West Asia and also reduced services to Europe and Central Asia to manage capacity constraints. Other Indian carriers likewise canceled services as airspace restrictions prompted route adjustments and operational changes.
India’s Civil Aviation Ministry has activated a Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) to support travelers. As of the time referenced, the PACR had handled 411 travel-related grievances. The report notes that airline operations continue to be managed under ongoing coordination while the situation evolves.
Key facts for travelers:
- Disruption type: Cancellations were reported between February 28 and March 1.
- Airlines involved: IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air.
- Causes: Airspace closures across multiple West Asia countries.
- Support: A Passenger Assistance Control Room has been set up and has already processed hundreds of inquiries.
Passengers with upcoming travel to or through the affected region should monitor airline communications and rebooking options. Timelines for restoration of normal services were not specified. Where applicable, travelers can seek rerouting or refunds in line with airline policies and relevant regulations.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Cancellation
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Start date:
2026-02-28
End date:
2026-03-01
Airlines affected:
IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, Akasa Air
Checked by:
Matteo Floris
Date updated:
2 March 2026
