NEW DELHI: Indian carriers have begun progressively resuming long-haul and ultra-long-haul operations by rerouting flights to avoid restricted airspace. In addition, special arrangements are being made to assist stranded passengers abroad.The ministry of civil aviation announced that a total of 24 flights are being operated by Indian carriers today, while Emirates and Etihad have operated nine flights from the Gulf in the last 24 hours.According to the ministry, Indian airlines have planned 58 flights on Wednesday, including 30 services by IndiGo and 23 by Air India and Air India Express. The carriers are deploying additional capacity where required and are working in coordination with foreign aviation authorities and Indian missions abroad to ensure “safe and orderly passenger movement.”Foreign airlines operating between India and the Gulf are also continuing limited services, subject to operational constraints and airspace restrictions.Ensuring passenger safety remains the top priority, the ministry said, adding that all airlines have been instructed to maintain transparent communication.“Passenger safety remains paramount. All airlines have been advised to maintain transparent communication with passengers and ensure adherence to regulatory requirements concerning refunds, rescheduling, and passenger assistance,” it said.The civil aviation ministry has also intensified monitoring of airfares to prevent any “undue surge in ticket prices” during this period of route adjustments.“Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status directly with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport and to rely only on official sources for updates,” the ministry said.It added that it remains in continuous coordination with airlines, airport operators, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the Ministry of External Affairs to restore normal operations smoothly and facilitate affected passengers. “Further updates will be issued as necessary,” the statement concluded.Till date, 1,221 flights by Indian carriers and 388 flights by foreign carriers have been cancelled due to the ongoing situation.
