Kuwait airport attack: Kerala expats worry flight disruption, visa validity concerns rise

Kochi: Flight services from Kerala to Gulf countries have once again come under strain following Iran’s attack at Kuwait International Airport, raising concerns among hundreds of expatriate Malayalis planning to return to work after the Eid and summer holiday period.

The uncertainty follows the cancellation of an Air India Express flight from Kochi to Bahrain. Expatriates are now worried that services to other Gulf destinations, including the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, could also be disrupted if the situation continues.

A key concern for many travellers is the impact that prolonged cancellations could have on their visa validity. Several expatriates who are due to return to their workplaces after spending their holidays in Kerala fear they may face difficulties if flights are suspended for an extended period.

Bahrain flight cancelled after check-in completed

The Air India Express flight scheduled to depart from Cochin International Airport for Bahrain on Wednesday was cancelled after passengers had already completed the check-in process. 

According to airport sources, the airline received an urgent message from the control room stating that Kuwait airspace had been closed suddenly. The service was subsequently cancelled as a precautionary measure.

Air India Express has said passengers affected by the cancellation will be informed later about alternative travel arrangements and ticket refunds.

High fares add to travellers' worries

However, passengers say a refund alone may not solve the problem. Booking tickets for alternative dates is likely to involve higher costs, adding to the burden on travellers.

Airfares from Kerala to Gulf countries are already elevated. Ticket prices from Kochi to Kuwait have crossed ₹50,000 on several dates in recent days. Fares to Bahrain are at a similar level, while tickets to Qatar are priced at more than ₹20,000.