Good News for Indians Stranded in Middle East Amidst Iran War: Two Airlines Make Major Announcement

Dubai: Air India and Air India Express have announced 24 flights between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. These will include both scheduled and non-scheduled flights. This initiative will provide particular relief to those Indians who, in the wake of the conflict involving Iran, have found themselves compelled to remain in the Gulf nations without any prior planning. A large number of Indians not only work in the Gulf countries but also visit them for tourism purposes. The conflict involving Iran has placed such individuals in a difficult predicament.

According to reports, both airlines - Air India and Air India Express - have decided to operate 10 additional non-scheduled flights to and from the UAE. These flights will be contingent upon the availability of flight slots and prevailing conditions at local airports. These flights have already secured all necessary approvals from both Indian and local authorities.

Will Flights to Saudi Arabia to Continue?

The report indicates that regular scheduled flight services between India and the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia will also continue to operate. These services will comprise a total of 10 flights. Air India will operate one return flight from Delhi and two flights from Mumbai, while Air India Express will operate one flight each from Hyderabad and Kozhikode.

Air India Express will operate four scheduled flights connecting Delhi and Mumbai with Muscat. Air India has confirmed that flights bound for North America, Europe, Australia, and other regions will operate according to their regular schedules. The airline has advised passengers to verify flight timings and availability prior to commencing their journey.

What is Impact of the Iran Conflict?

Intense hostilities have been ongoing between the United States and Iran for approximately the past month. This conflict erupted following attacks launched against Iran by the US-Israel alliance on February 28. These hostilities have had a direct impact on the Gulf nations. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait are facing persistent challenges as a direct consequence of this conflict.

In retaliation for the attacks, Iran has targeted US military bases located within the Gulf nations. This has had a direct impact on air traffic operations. A large number of flights have been cancelled due to missile and drone attacks. Consequently, many people have been forced to remain stranded in the Gulf countries. A large number of flights will provide these individuals with options to depart from the region.