Indian airlines cancel 2,600+ West Asia flights since February 28
What's the story
India's aviation sector is reeling from the West Asia airspace crisis, with over 2,600 flights canceled since February 28. The disruption has led to Indian carriers canceling thousands of flights due to restricted airspace and operational challenges. However, both Indian and foreign airlines are operating special and scheduled services to bring stranded passengers back home.
Passenger repatriation
Nearly 88,000 passengers repatriated to India
Government sources have revealed that nearly 88,000 passengers have been repatriated from West Asia to India since February 28. This was possible as airlines intensified their efforts to evacuate travelers affected by the ongoing crisis. Between February 28 and March 8, Indian airlines operated a total of 286 flights bringing back some 49,198 passengers from West Asia.
International assistance
IndiGo, Emirates most active carriers during crisis
During the same period, foreign airlines operated 166 flights bringing back around 38,710 passengers. Among Indian carriers, IndiGo was the most active with 20,901 passengers repatriated. Air India Express followed closely with 10,745 passengers. On the international front, Emirates led the way by bringing back a whopping 18,286 travelers during this challenging time.
Cancelations breakdown
Over 2,600 flight cancelations since March 1
The ongoing crisis has led to massive flight cancellations by Indian airlines. IndiGo canceled the most flights with 1,098 cancellations since March 1. It is followed by Air India Express with 818 cancellations and Air India with 240. SpiceJet and Akasa Air also contributed to the total of over 2,600 canceled flights when February 28's record of 196 cancellations is included.
Operational recovery
Airlines to resume operations gradually
Despite the ongoing challenges, airlines are slowly resuming operations. Today, Indian carriers are planning some 50 flights to West Asia. Air India and Air India Express will together operate 24 scheduled flights to Jeddah and Muscat. The two airlines are also planning 32 additional ad hoc flights to/from various destinations in the UAE, depending on the slot availability, regulatory approvals and operational conditions.
Fare regulation
Aviation Ministry monitors airfares as crisis unfolds
As thousands of passengers continue to return home, the Aviation Ministry is keeping a close watch on airfares. The aim is to ensure that ticket prices remain reasonable and there is no undue surge in fares during this disruption.