Indian airlines cancel 279 international flights amid Gulf airspace closures
By Josh Arnfield
Last updated on 9 March 2026
Indian carriers canceled 279 international flights on 8 March due to Gulf airspace closures linked to regional conflict. The Civil Aviation Ministry cited widespread operational disruption. Mumbai airport logged 66 cancellations (34 departures, 32 arrivals). Delhi’s airport warned that some west-bound services could see delays or schedule changes. From 9 March, carriers scheduled additional services, including Air India and Air India Express flights to Jeddah and Muscat, plus ad‑hoc UAE services. Air India also planned 78 extra flights between 10–18 March. Authorities said they are coordinating and monitoring airfares.
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Indian carriers canceled 279 international flights on Sunday, 8 March, following airspace closures across the Gulf region amid escalating regional conflict. According to the Civil Aviation Ministry, the closures triggered widespread operational disruption for services linking India with destinations to the west.
Within India, Mumbai airport experienced notable impact, with 66 flights canceled on the day—34 departures and 32 arrivals. In Delhi, the airport operator advised that some west‑bound international flights could face delays or schedule changes as the situation evolves.
Data reviewed by the ministry also showed movement on 7 March, when 51 inbound flights from the region arrived in India carrying a total of 8,175 passengers. Of the flights disrupted on 8 March, 49 were scheduled to operate between West Asia and India and were canceled due to operational infeasibility under the prevailing conditions.
In response, Indian carriers began deploying additional and alternative services from 9 March to support stranded travelers. Air India and Air India Express scheduled 10 flights to and from Jeddah and 14 flights to and from Muscat. They also planned to operate 32 ad‑hoc, non‑scheduled services to the United Arab Emirates, subject to slot availability and operational conditions at departure points.
To add further capacity, Air India announced 78 extra flights across nine international routes between 10 and 18 March. The Civil Aviation Ministry stated it continues to coordinate closely with airlines and other stakeholders while monitoring passenger airfares to guard against unreasonable increases during the disruption.
Passengers booked on affected services should check directly with their airline for rebooking options, alternative routings, and the latest flight status updates as schedules are adjusted.
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
Flights affected:
279
Status:
Past disruption
Start date:
2026-03-08
Airports affected:
Mumbai airport
Checked by:
Josh Arnfield
Date updated:
9 March 2026
