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Flight operations in the Gulf region have been widely affected due to temporary closure of airspace in many parts of West Asia. In this situation, a large number of passengers are stuck in different countries. Indian diplomatic missions have launched proactive initiatives to assist affected citizens, while several airlines have announced special relief flights.
Indian Embassy fully active in Kuwait
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait said on social media platform X that it is fully active to assist Indian passengers stranded due to the temporary closure of the airspace. Embassy officials said they are in constant touch with the passengers and are coordinating with Kuwaiti authorities, relevant hotels and airlines to ensure necessary assistance.
Etihad Airways stopped flights
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways issued an operational update saying all its scheduled commercial flights to and from Abu Dhabi will be suspended until 2pm (UAE time) on March 4. The airline said some re-positioning, cargo and repatriation flights may be operated subject to coordination with UAE authorities and strict security clearance. The airline has appealed to passengers not to reach the airport unless they have been contacted directly. It is also advised to check flight status on the website before travelling, and keep the contact details updated in booking. Free rebooking or refund facility is being provided till March 18 to passengers traveling till March 7 on tickets issued till February 28.
SpiceJet special flights
Indian airline SpiceJet said that many of its flights from UAE have been canceled due to the closure of the airspace. The company on Tuesday announced that it will operate four special flights from Fujairah in the UAE to Delhi, Mumbai and Kochi, of which two will be to Mumbai. The airline said the possibility of additional special flights is also being explored depending on passenger demand and regulatory approvals. Also, regular scheduled services of Fujairah-Delhi and Fujairah-Mumbai will be restored from March 4.
Limited resumption of Akasa Air
Akasa Air has announced to operate select flights from Jeddah to Mumbai and Ahmedabad on March 3 and 4 after a comprehensive security review. However, its flights to Abu Dhabi, Doha, Kuwait and Riyadh will remain suspended till March 4. The airline clarified that the safety of passengers and crew is the top priority and all operations will depend on the prevailing circumstances.
Indigo special flights from Jeddah
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia informed that IndiGo will operate special flights from Jeddah to India, so that the stranded passengers can get relief. The countries and airlines concerned are continuously monitoring the developing situation in the Gulf region. Steps are being taken to resume flight operations in a phased manner based on security assessment, while Indian missions are engaged in providing assistance to citizens in need.
