• Source:JND

Iran-Israel War: In the wake of escalating tensions following the US-Israel airstrikes on Iran, the repercussions on global aviation have been swift and far-reaching. Retaliatory airstrikes and missile exchanges have resulted in airspace closures across several countries, including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE. This has disrupted the busiest air travel corridor connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

As a result, several nations have closed their airspace, while major hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have suspended operations. Airlines around the globe have cancelled or diverted flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded across various continents. With latest advisories being issued by airlines, it has become increasingly important for travellers to be aware of their rights and understand what each airline is offering in terms of assistance.

If you are an Indian passenger, under the guidelines of India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), you are entitled to a 48-hour free cancellation window for all bookings. Full refunds must be processed within 14 days of cancellation. In the event of major disruptions, airlines are required to provide either alternate flights or refunds at no extra charge. These rules apply to Indian carriers and bookings made within India, making them particularly relevant in the current situation.

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Iran-Israel War: What Airlines Are Offering If Your Flight Is Cancelled Amid Disruptions?

1. Air India

Air India has begun notifying affected passengers through the contact details provided at the time of booking.

- Travellers are advised to check live flight statuses via the following link: Air India Flight Status

- Rebooking options for alternate flights.

- Full refunds for impacted passengers, in line with DGCA regulations.

- Assistance available via the website, customer service, or the original booking source.

ALSO READ: Iran-Israel War LIVE Updates: Tehran Rejects Talks With Washington, Shuts Airspace; Israel Bombs Iran's Presidential Office

2. IndiGo

IndiGo, which has a significant presence in the Middle East, has temporarily suspended several international flights.

- Passengers are advised to check for cancellations, delays, and updates at IndiGo Flight Cancellations

- Options available include rebooking on alternate flights or requesting a full refund.

- Full flexibility and waivers are being offered for travel to and from the Middle East until March 7, 2026, for bookings made before February 28.

- Free rescheduling.

- Complete refunds for cancelled flights.

- Waivers on change fees for affected routes.

3. Emirates

Emirates has temporarily suspended all flights to and from Dubai due to the ongoing airspace restrictions.

- Passengers booked on flights before March 5 have the following options:

- Rebook for travel within 20 days of the original flight date.

- Request a full refund via the Emirates refund form.

- Check Emirates Flight Status for the latest updates before heading to the airport.

- Passengers who booked through travel agents should contact their agent directly.

- Refund requests can be processed through the official refund form.

4. Qatar Airways

With the closure of Qatari airspace, operations at Doha’s Hamad International Airport have been temporarily halted. Flight services will resume once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirms that conditions are safe.

- Passengers are encouraged to monitor updates via the Qatar Airways website or mobile app.

- Qatar Airways is Offering Travel waivers for affected passengers.

- Options for rebooking, refunds, or converting tickets into travel credits.

5. Etihad Airways

Due to the closure of UAE airspace, Etihad Airways has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 14:00 UAE time on Thursday, March 5.

- Passengers are encouraged to check flight statuses at Etihad Flight Status and ensure their contact details are up-to-date in their booking.

- Passengers with tickets issued on or before February 28 and with original travel dates up to March 10, may rebook without charge onto Etihad-operated flights through to March 31.

- Full refunds are available for all cancelled flights.

- Refund requests can be processed via Etihad Refund Form or through the travel agent if applicable.

- Free rebooking for eligible tickets through 15 March 2026.

6. British Airways

British Airways has announced that passengers travelling between London and several Middle Eastern destinations (Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, or Tel Aviv) may change their travel date free of charge. The new journey must take place on or before March 29.

- Additionally, passengers scheduled to fly up to March 8 are entitled to request a full refund.

- Free date changes are available for a broad selection of affected routes.

- Full refunds for near-term travel up to 8 March.

- Flexible options for passengers flying through the Middle East.


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