India’s largest airline IndiGo on Friday announced that it has extended free cancellation waivers for flights to and from the Middle East and Istanbul until March 31, 2026, as tensions continue to disrupt aviation operations in the region.
The airline said the decision was taken in view of the volatile security situation in West Asia following the ongoing conflict triggered by joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, and the subsequent retaliatory actions by Tehran.
Free Cancellation Waiver Announced
In an official statement, IndiGo said passengers travelling to and from the Middle East region and Istanbul in Turkey will be eligible for full cancellation waivers until the end of March.
The airline added that it is closely monitoring developments in the region and regularly providing real-time updates through its website and social media channels.
“Full waiver on cancellations are being extended for travel to and from the Middle East and Istanbul until March 31, 2026,” the airline said.
Gradual Restoration of Flights
Earlier, both IndiGo and Air India had suspended flights to several Middle East destinations following the escalation of the conflict.
However, in a fresh advisory issued on Thursday evening, IndiGo announced that it will operate 17 departures covering 34 sectors to eight destinations in the Middle East on Friday as part of a phased restoration of services.
The airline said it is coordinating with government authorities to ensure the safe resumption of flight operations.
“Our teams will be reaching out directly to the customers of these specific flights through their registered contact details. We request that passengers do not proceed to the airport unless they have been notified,” the advisory said.
Massive Disruption in Middle East Aviation
The conflict has caused significant disruptions in global aviation, particularly in the Middle East, which is a major international transit hub.
According to data cited in a Bloomberg report based on analytics firm Cirium, nearly 27,000 flights to Middle East hubs have been cancelled since the fighting began on February 28.
Out of around 51,600 scheduled flights to or from the region, more than half have been cancelled, reflecting the scale of the disruption in air travel.
Airlines Remain on High Alert
Airlines operating in the region continue to review flight routes and schedules amid concerns over airspace safety and geopolitical risks. Many carriers are adjusting operations depending on security advisories issued by aviation authorities.
IndiGo reiterated that passenger safety remains its top priority, and further decisions regarding flight operations will be taken based on ongoing developments in the region.
