Gulf airlines are pushing back after Mumbai International Airport (MIAL) denied them their usual flight slots for summer 2027, sparking talk of possible diplomatic tensions.
11 Gulf carriers are affected, with eight formally protesting to both the airport and India's aviation ministry.
The airlines say MIAL shouldn't be able to take away long-standing slots without clear legal grounds.
MIAL capacity cuts prompt airline warnings
The dispute comes as MIAL plans to cut passenger capacity by 5 million a year from March 2027 for terminal upgrades, suggesting some flights move to Navi Mumbai instead.
But the airlines aren't on board: they argue redevelopment shouldn't erase existing rights and warn they might take "reciprocal measures" if things aren't sorted out soon.
The Airline Operators Committee has also asked the government to step in.