Iran-US conflict: The escalating conflict between Iran and the United States has triggered one of the most significant aviation disruptions in recent times, with nearly 2,000 flights cancelled globally and major air corridors thrown into uncertainty.
Tensions between Iran and the United States intensified following failed nuclear negotiations, Iran’s internal crackdown on protests, and US threats of military action.
On February 28, 2026, the US and Israel reportedly launched coordinated strikes, codenamed Operations Roaring Lion and Epic Fury, targeting Iranian military installations, nuclear facilities and leadership positions in Tehran, Isfahan and other cities.
In response, Iran carried out missile and drone attacks on US bases across Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, Jordan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, along with strikes on Israel. Explosions were also reported in civilian areas, including Dubai, heightening safety concerns across the region.
Nearly 2,000 flights cancelled worldwide
The conflict has led to widespread airspace restrictions across the Middle East, disrupting key global aviation corridors that connect Asia, Europe and North America.
More than 1,600 flights operated by Gulf carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, were cancelled as airlines avoided conflict zones and rerouted aircraft for passenger safety.
Flights bound for the United States, the United Kingdom and Europe have been cancelled, diverted or delayed as airlines navigate restricted airspace.
Indian air service severely impacted
India witnessed over 350 flight cancellations in a single day due to safety concerns and operational disruptions.
At Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, more than 50 flights were cancelled, with international routes among the worst affected. Meanwhile, Indira Gandhi International Airport and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport reported long queues, delays and heavy passenger rush as schedules were revised.
Thousands of passengers have been left stranded across India and the Middle East, with airports struggling to manage confusion and rescheduling challenges.
Indian airlines suspend Gulf operations
Major Indian carriers announced temporary suspensions and large-scale cancellations:
- Air India Express suspended Gulf flights until March 2, 23:59 IST, affecting services to Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
- Akasa Air suspended flights to Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait and Riyadh until March 2.
- Air India cancelled over 100 international flights, including routes to the US, Europe and Gulf destinations.
- IndiGo and other carriers also cancelled or rerouted multiple services.
Airlines are offering full refunds or free rescheduling without extra charges. Air India Express has allowed flexibility for travel until March 5, while Akasa Air extended flexible booking options until March 7.
Passengers have been advised to check flight status before heading to airports and keep contact details updated for real-time alerts. Airlines have activated 24×7 customer support via call centres, chatbots and WhatsApp.
Airfares surge amid limited capacity
With large sections of Middle East airspace restricted, airlines are operating longer alternative routes, increasing fuel consumption and flight durations. The reduced number of operational flights and heightened demand have led to a sharp surge in airfares.
As the Iran–US conflict continues to evolve, global air connectivity between Asia, Europe and North America remains under severe strain, with uncertainty looming over international travel in the coming days.
