The Aryavarth Express:
New Delhi: The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and its potential impact on air travel between India and the region. Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu is personally overseeing developments and maintaining direct coordination with all relevant stakeholders to ensure a swift and coordinated response.
According to the ministry, airlines are making necessary operational adjustments in response to the changing situation, with passenger safety and service continuity remaining top priorities.
Operational data from March 9 shows that Indian carriers successfully operated 45 inbound flights from West Asia, bringing a total of 7,047 passengers back to India.
To address emerging challenges, airlines have sought greater operational flexibility to ensure passenger safety and to support evacuation efforts if required. In response, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has coordinated with relevant authorities to provide additional arrival and departure slots. The regulator has also permitted the use of Muscat International Airport as an en-route alternate airport for flights operating to and from several destinations.
These destinations include Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, Fujairah, Jeddah and Medina.
Airlines have also announced operational plans to strengthen connectivity. Air India and Air India Express are scheduled to begin flights to Riyadh from March 12. IndiGo will also launch its Mumbai–Riyadh–Mumbai service on the same date.
SpiceJet has received necessary approvals to use alternate airports to ensure operational safety and flexibility for flights operating in the region. Meanwhile, Akasa Air has been advised to align the launch of its planned Mumbai–Riyadh–Mumbai service with prevailing operational conditions. The airline is also scheduled to begin operations on the route from March 12.
MoCA said it is maintaining regular coordination with airlines and other stakeholders to ensure passenger movement remains orderly. Airfares are also being closely monitored to prevent any unreasonable surge in ticket prices during this period.
Passengers have been advised to stay in contact with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and travel arrangements.
The ministry stated that it will continue to review the situation and provide further updates as required.
