Middle East tensions ground flights in India: A visual of airports and stranded passengers (In photos)

Several passengers at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport were left waiting for hours as international flights were delayed or cancelled. The disruptions were caused by airspace restrictions across parts of the Middle East affecting global flight routes. (PHOTO CREDIT: ANI)

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation maintained close contact with airlines, ensuring compliance with safety and operational rules. Around 410 flights were cancelled on 28 February, with 444 more expected on 1 March due to ongoing Middle East airspace restrictions. (PHOTO CREDIT: PTI)

Bengaluru airport saw 19 cancellations affecting routes to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam. Most affected flights were operated by IndiGo, Air India Express, and Emirates, with disruption caused by airspace restrictions rather than weather. (PHOTO CREDIT: ANI)

The cascading effect of delayed arrivals and departures created confusion among passengers. Airlines provided rebooking or refunds, while a dedicated passenger help desk was set up at Level 3 of T2 to assist those impacted by international cancellations. (PHOTO CREDIT: ANI)

Flight operations from Chennai to key West Asia destinations were disrupted over the weekend. At least 14 flights were cancelled, including inbound and outbound services, due to airspace restrictions following heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. (PHOTO CREDIT: PTI)

Domestic and international airlines including Air India, Indigo, Oman Air, Emirates, and Qatar Airways suspended flights to West Asia. Passengers were urged to monitor updates and check for rebooking or alternative travel options amid the uncertainty. (PHOTO CREDIT: PTI)

Mumbai airport experienced 98 flight cancellations and five diversions by Saturday night. Rising security risks in Middle East and Gulf airspace forced airlines to suspend international operations temporarily, with limited parking for diverted aircraft until the following morning. (PHOTO CREDIT: PTI)

Air India, Akasa Air, and Air India Express suspended West Asia and Europe flights, notifying passengers about refunds or rebooking options. Airfares for March 1 surged sharply on affected routes, including flights to London and several Gulf destinations. (PHOTO CREDIT: ANI)