India-UAE air travel chaos: Flyers hit due to costly fares, last minute cancellations

Karipur: Neither the easing of the West Asian conflict nor the addition of more airline services has brought relief to expatriates. Airlines continue to charge exorbitant ticket fares, with prices surging by up to 100%. Tickets to the UAE that once cost ₹7,500 are now being sold for over ₹1 lakh on many days.

Adding to this is what passengers describe as ‘daylight robbery’ through frequent flight cancellations. Indian airline companies are reportedly leading in this regard. At present, services from UAE airports such as Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah to many destinations in India remain limited. Despite this, tickets are readily available on official airline websites and other platforms.

Passengers with urgent travel needs—such as those who have lost jobs or require emergency leave—book these expensive tickets. However, many are informed of cancellations just a day before departure. Instead of refunds, airlines often offer only date changes or allow passengers to switch arrival airports. Those insisting on refunds receive only about 30% of the fare after deductions.

Passengers allege that Indian airline companies continue to sell tickets without even ascertaining the services, effectively pocketing up to 70% of fares.

In contrast, foreign airlines are seen as more reliable by travellers. While their fares are also high, cancellations are less frequent, and refunds—when cancellations occur—are processed with minimal deductions.