New Delhi: Indian airlines will ramp up flights from the conflict-hit Gulf today, with the government tracking West Asia unrest and its effects on India routes.
From March 12, Air India and Air India Express start Riyadh services; IndiGo launches Mumbai-Riyadh-Mumbai. SpiceJet gained alternate airport clearances for safety, and Akasa Air must sync its planned Mumbai-Riyadh-Mumbai debut with conditions, the Civil Aviation Ministry said.
Air India and Air India Express today operate 58 scheduled/non-scheduled West Asia flights, including 8 to/from Jeddah and 14 to/from Muscat.
On March 9, 45 inbound flights carried 7,407 passengers from the region.
Minister Ram Mohan Naidu oversees operations, engaging stakeholders for rapid action. "Airlines are making appropriate operational arrangements in response to the evolving situation, with passenger safety and continuity of services remaining the primary considerations," the ministry noted.
DGCA secured extra slots and named Muscat an alternate for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, Fujairah, Jeddah, and Medina flights.
Fares stay under scrutiny to curb surges. Passengers: check airlines for updates. More info as situation evolves.
(Inputs from IANS)