Middle East conflict grounds flights; Etihad, Emirates resume limited ops
Amidst escalating Middle East tensions, numerous flights have been cancelled across the region, with some sources reporting over 19,000 cancellations since late February. Major airlines like Etihad and Emirates have begun a limited resumption of services as airspace restrictions ease. Indian cities are included in the partially restored flight schedules.
Key Highlights
- Over 19,000 flights cancelled due to Middle East conflict.
- Etihad and Emirates are resuming limited flight operations.
- Indian cities are part of the rescheduled international routes.
- Airspace closures significantly disrupted regional and global air travel.
- Aviation analytics firms report significant drops in flight departures.
The ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East has led to a severe disruption in air travel, with widespread flight cancellations and airspace closures impacting major hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Aviation analytics firm Cirium reported that over 23,000 flights were cancelled between February 28 and March 5, affecting approximately 4.4 million seats. Another report cited over 19,000 flight cancellations since February 28. This has resulted in significant chaos, with thousands of passengers stranded globally.
In response to the evolving situation, major airlines such as Etihad Airways and Emirates have announced a limited resumption of flight operations. Etihad Airways began a restricted commercial flight schedule on March 6, operating between Abu Dhabi and 70 key destinations, including several Indian cities like Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, with services expected to run until March 19. Emirates has also resumed a reduced flight schedule to 82 destinations. These reoperations are subject to airspace approvals and can change at short notice. Airlines are urging passengers not to travel to the airport unless they have a confirmed booking and have received direct communication from their carrier.
The conflict has led to widespread airspace closures across Iran, Israel, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Syria, with partial restrictions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This has forced airlines to reroute flights, leading to extended flight times, increased fuel costs, and potential unprofitability for certain routes. The impact extends beyond regional carriers, affecting global airlines operating in the area.
The aviation industry has experienced its worst travel chaos since the Covid-19 pandemic, with major airports like Dubai International Airport experiencing an 87% drop in scheduled flights since February 28. Hamad International Airport in Qatar saw a 93% drop in scheduled flights.
Economic repercussions are also being felt, with a surge in airfares on affected routes. For instance, the Dubai to Heathrow route, usually around £376, was advertised at over £1,800. Aviation experts note that reduced flight capacity due to the grounding of Middle Eastern carriers is driving up prices. Beyond air travel, the conflict has also impacted other sectors, with concerns about potential impacts on global oil prices and a significant expected drop in tourism to the GCC region.
Indian carriers such as IndiGo and Air India have also been affected, with some flights to the Middle East suspended. Air India, however, has begun operating a limited number of flights to Dubai and Jeddah to bring back stranded passengers and plans to resume scheduled services on certain routes.
The situation remains fluid, with airlines continuously monitoring developments and coordinating with authorities to ensure safety and operational feasibility. The resumption of services is gradual and dependent on the easing of airspace restrictions and security assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent flight cancellations in the Middle East?
The flight cancellations and airspace closures are a result of the escalating geopolitical conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States in the Middle East, which began on February 28, 2026.
Which airlines have resumed limited flight operations?
Major airlines like Etihad Airways and Emirates have begun a limited resumption of services as airspace restrictions ease.
Are flights to India affected by these disruptions?
Yes, several Indian cities are included in the partially restored flight schedules of airlines like Etihad Airways, which has announced operations to cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
What is the scale of the flight disruptions?
Reports indicate significant numbers of cancellations, with some sources stating over 23,000 flights cancelled between February 28 and March 5, and others mentioning over 19,000 cancellations since late February.
What is the current status of airspace in the Middle East?
Widespread airspace closures and restrictions are in effect across several Middle Eastern countries, including Iran, Israel, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, with partial restrictions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.