Amid the West Asia situation, India’s aviation sector is moving quickly to maintain connectivity and ensure passenger safety. The ministry of civil aviation has announced that Indian airlines will expand connectivity to several West Asian destinations starting March 12, 2026, while closely monitoring the evolving situation in the region.
The move comes as the government coordinates with airlines and aviation authorities to maintain travel continuity between India and key Gulf destinations despite disruptions caused by the ongoing regional conflict.
Government Closely Monitoring The Situation
Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu is personally overseeing developments and maintaining continuous engagement with airlines and regulators to ensure swift and coordinated responses.
According to the ministry, passenger safety and uninterrupted services remain the top priority as airlines adjust their operational strategies to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Strong Passenger Movement Continues
Despite the uncertainties, air connectivity between India and West Asia remains active. Operational data from March 9, 2026, shows that 45 inbound flights operated by Indian carriers arrived in India from West Asia, carrying 7,407 passengers. This steady flow highlights the importance of these routes, which connect millions of Indian expatriates, business travellers and tourists between the two regions.
DGCA Facilitates Alternate Routes And Airport Access
To support airline operations and ensure safe routing, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has coordinated with international aviation authorities to enable additional operational flexibility.
One key measure includes allowing the use of Muscat International Airport as an enroute alternate airport for flights operating to major Gulf destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, Fujairah, Jeddah and Medina. This arrangement ensures that airlines have safe contingency options if conditions in the region change suddenly.
Airlines Plan Additional Services
Several Indian airlines are adjusting their route networks and schedules to maintain connectivity with key Gulf markets. Air India and Air India Express will begin operating flights to Riyadh from March 12, 2026. IndiGo will launch Mumbai–Riyadh–Mumbai services from the same date. SpiceJet has received approvals for alternate airports to ensure operational flexibility and safety.
Akasa Air has been advised to align the launch of its planned Mumbai–Riyadh–Mumbai services with the prevailing operational conditions. The expanded operations are expected to support passenger movement and, if required, assist with evacuation efforts from affected areas.
Airfare Monitoring To Prevent Price Spikes
In addition to managing flight operations, the ministry is also closely monitoring airfare trends to prevent unreasonable price increases during the period of uncertainty. Authorities have warned airlines against sudden fare surges, stressing that ticket prices must remain reasonable and accessible for passengers, especially those needing urgent travel.
Advisory For Passengers
The ministry has advised travellers to remain in close contact with their respective airlines for real-time updates regarding flight schedules, route changes and travel advisories. Officials said the government will continue reviewing the situation in West Asia and take further steps if required to ensure safe and orderly passenger movement.