Flight Cancellations Expected Amid Rising Tensions Between Iran and Israel

The Civil Aviation Ministry has announced potential flight cancellations due to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, with 444 flights expected to be affected. Passengers are advised to confirm their flight status with airlines before traveling to airports. The DGCA is coordinating closely with airlines to ensure safety and compliance with operational regulations. The AirSewa platform has recorded numerous complaints, with many resolved to assist affected travelers. Additionally, stranded Indian travelers in Saudi Arabia can reach out to the embassy for support. Stay informed about updates from airlines to navigate these disruptions effectively.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 1, 2026, 12:46 IST

Flight Disruptions Announced by Civil Aviation Ministry

On Sunday, the Civil Aviation Ministry announced that due to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, there is a likelihood of 444 flights being canceled today. The ministry stated in a post that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is working closely with airlines to ensure passenger safety and compliance with operational regulations. The post indicated that 410 domestic flights were canceled on February 28 due to airspace restrictions over Iran and parts of the Middle East, with a further 444 cancellations anticipated for March 1. The DGCA is maintaining close coordination with airlines to ensure full adherence to safety and operational guidelines.

Advice for Passengers

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) further advised travelers to check and confirm their flight status with the respective airlines before heading to the airport. Additionally, the ministry has issued operational alerts at major airports to manage potential flight route changes and ensure passenger assistance. MoCA posted on X that these alerts are in place to facilitate smooth travel for passengers. Senior officials have been deployed on-site to monitor passenger assistance, airline coordination, and crowd management at terminals. The Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) is actively monitoring passenger concerns and facilitating quick resolutions.

AirSewa Platform and Embassy Support

MoCA reported that the AirSewa platform, which allows passengers to file complaints, track them, and check real-time flight status, received 216 complaints, with 105 resolved during this period. The post noted that on February 28, 216 complaints were logged on AirSewa, ensuring necessary assistance for affected passengers. All stakeholders are collaborating to manage impacted travelers smoothly and provide timely support. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh has stated that any Indian travelers stranded in Saudi Arabia due to travel disruptions can reach out to the embassy through various helpline numbers.

Embassy Assistance for Stranded Travelers

The embassy posted on X that Indian travelers facing difficulties in Saudi Arabia due to closed airspace or canceled flights can contact the embassy via various 24/7 helpline numbers. Several Indian airlines have assured that necessary measures are being taken to assist stranded Indian travelers. The embassy has urged passengers to follow updates issued by their respective airlines.