Govt Monitors West Asia Situation as Indian Airlines Plan More Gulf Flights

New Delhi — Indian airlines are set to increase flight operations from the Gulf region on Wednesday as the government continues to closely monitor the evolving situation in West Asia and its impact on air travel between India and the region.

According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, operational plans indicate that Air India and Air India Express will begin operating flights to Riyadh from March 12. Meanwhile, IndiGo is scheduled to launch its Mumbai–Riyadh–Mumbai service from the same date.

The ministry also said that SpiceJet has been facilitated in securing approvals for alternate airports to ensure operational flexibility and safety amid the current situation. At the same time, Akasa Air has been advised to align the launch of its planned Mumbai–Riyadh–Mumbai route with prevailing operational conditions, with services expected to begin on March 12.

Air India and Air India Express together are operating a total of 58 scheduled and non-scheduled flights to and from West Asia on March 11. Both airlines continue their scheduled operations to destinations such as Jeddah and Muscat.

On the day, eight flights are operating between India and Jeddah, while Air India Express alone is running 14 scheduled flights connecting India with Muscat.

Operational data from March 9 showed that 45 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived from West Asia, carrying 7,407 passengers.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu is personally overseeing the situation and remains in close contact with all stakeholders to ensure timely and coordinated responses.

The ministry said airlines are adjusting their operational plans in response to the changing circumstances, with passenger safety and continuity of services remaining the top priority.

Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has coordinated with authorities to secure additional arrival and departure slots. It has also permitted the use of Muscat International Airport as an en-route alternate airport for flights operating to and from destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, Fujairah, Medina and Jeddah.

Officials said the government is maintaining regular coordination with airlines and related stakeholders to ensure smooth passenger movement.

Authorities are also keeping a close watch on airfares to ensure ticket prices remain reasonable and to prevent any sudden spike during the current period.

Passengers have been advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and travel arrangements, while the ministry said it will continue to review the situation and provide further updates as needed.

With inputs from IANS