Civil Aviation Ministry Steadily Resumes Flight Operations via Alternative Routes Amid Airspace Restrictions

New Delhi, India — The Ministry of Civil Aviation said on Wednesday that Indian carriers are progressively restoring international flight operations by rerouting long-haul and ultra-long-haul services to avoid restricted airspace caused by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in parts of West Asia.

According to an official statement, airlines have made calibrated schedule adjustments to resume flights via alternative routes that bypass no-fly zones and safety-sensitive areas, helping restore connectivity while keeping passenger safety paramount.

In recent days, Indian carriers have operated limited services despite the disruptions. A total of 24 flights were flown by Indian airlines on Tuesday, while Gulf carriers such as Emirates and Etihad operated nine flights into India within the same period, the Ministry reported.

Looking ahead, the government said carriers plan to operate 58 flights on March 4, including about 30 by IndiGo and 23 by Air India and Air India Express, as part of ongoing resumption efforts.

The Ministry also noted that special arrangements are being made to support thousands of stranded passengers affected by earlier cancellations. Airlines are coordinating closely with foreign aviation authorities and Indian diplomatic missions abroad to facilitate safe and orderly travel, while also monitoring airfare trends to prevent unwarranted price spikes.

To date, over 1,200 flights operated by Indian carriers and nearly 400 by foreign airlines have been cancelled due to the evolving airspace situation, the Ministry said.

Travelers are advised to check flight statuses with their airlines before heading to airports and stay updated through official channels as operations continue to adjust to shifting airspace conditions.