Middle East flight chaos? Here’s how IndiGo and Air India passengers can change tickets for free

Indian airlines have rolled out flexible travel policies and special relief operations as escalating hostilities in the Middle East continue to disrupt international air connectivity, particularly across West Asian sectors.

With regional airspace restrictions entering their fourth day amid expanding Iranian retaliatory strikes, thousands of passengers travelling between India and Gulf destinations have been affected by cancellations, delays and rerouting.

IndiGo extends full waiver till March 7

IndiGo announced extended flexibility for passengers booked on Middle East routes and certain international sectors. The airline is offering full waivers on change and cancellation fees for travel up to March 7, 2026, for tickets booked on or before February 28.

Eligible passengers can modify their travel plans without penalty or opt for refunds directly through the airline’s official website.

IndiGo’s move is aimed at reducing passenger inconvenience as airspace restrictions and operational constraints continue to evolve across the region.

Air India offers rescheduling and refund options

Air India has also introduced flexible options for customers impacted by cancellations. The waiver applies to bookings made on or before February 28 for travel scheduled up to March 5.

Passengers may reschedule without additional charges or request a full refund to their original mode of payment via Air India’s online portal. The airline said the digital refund system is intended to streamline processing amid high call volumes and operational disruptions.

Impact across airports

The ripple effect of the crisis has been visible at major Indian airports. At Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, 44 flights were cancelled as services to Gulf hubs were suspended or rescheduled. At Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, at least 10 international flights were called off, particularly those linking the city with Gulf destinations.

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Meanwhile, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi reported 36 departures and 44 arrivals cancelled as of Tuesday. Several westbound international flights experienced delays due to rerouting and airspace congestion.

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) advised passengers to verify flight status with their respective airlines before heading to the airport, noting that other sectors remain largely operational.

State-level intervention

In Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde arranged two special aircraft to bring back 164 stranded residents from the UAE. The state government has also launched an emergency WhatsApp helpline to coordinate assistance for citizens affected by flight suspensions.

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Indian aviation authorities continue to monitor developments closely, with further adjustments expected depending on regional airspace stability.