Flight operations from Patna to Middle East countries have faced significant disruptions due to increasing geopolitical tensions. Major airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and Air India Express have suspended their services to the Gulf region. This has affected around 150 passengers from Patna who were planning to travel to destinations like Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman on March 1 and 2. While some travelers have rescheduled their journeys for later dates, many have opted for full refunds.
Which flights are cancelled and what are the refund rules?
Air India, IndiGo, and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to Gulf countries until March 2, 2026. Some reports indicate that rescheduling options are available for journeys booked through March 5. For those who made bookings on or before February 28, airlines are offering specific relief measures. Air India and Air India Express are providing full refunds or a one-time rescheduling at no additional cost for travel originally planned up to March 5. Akasa Air has also announced full refunds or free rescheduling for affected bookings through March 7.
Why are flights being rerouted and what is the impact?
The sudden closure of airspaces over Iran, Iraq, and Jordan has forced airlines to change their routes. This decision follows geopolitical tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Long-haul flights to Europe and North America are being rerouted to avoid conflict zones, which has resulted in longer flight times. In Bihar, families are in constant contact with relatives living in Dubai and Bahrain, advising them to stay indoors. Common fares for these routes usually range between ₹10,000 and ₹25,000, but the current situation has caused a national impact with approximately 350 international flights cancelled on March 1 alone.
- Airlines Affected: Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet
- Destination Hubs: Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, and Kuwait City
- Passenger Advice: Check flight status online before proceeding to Patna Airport
- Regulatory Action: DGCA is coordinating with airlines for safety compliance
