At least 100 international flights — including both arrivals and departures — were cancelled at Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday as escalating tensions in West Asia triggered widespread airspace closures.
According to airport officials, 62 departures and 42 arrivals were cancelled by late evening. Most of these cancellations were announced in advance, and affected passengers were informed beforehand to prevent unnecessary travel to the airport.
However, westbound routes remained severely disrupted for the second consecutive day, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded or scrambling for alternative arrangements.
Delays Compound Passenger Hardship
The disruption extended beyond cancellations. Data from FlightRadar24 showed that over 400 flights were delayed at the Delhi airport as of 9 pm, including more than 300 arrivals. The average delay for incoming flights stood at approximately 19 minutes.
Delhi airport handles around 1,520 flights daily, making it one of the busiest aviation hubs in South Asia. Even minor schedule disruptions can quickly escalate into large-scale passenger inconvenience.
In a statement posted on X, airport operator Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) advised travellers to check directly with their respective airlines for real-time updates, warning that westbound international flights may continue to face delays or schedule adjustments.
Passengers Stranded, Facing Financial and Emotional Stress
Scenes at Terminal 3 reflected mounting frustration. Long queues formed at airline counters, and passengers gathered around information boards monitoring flight status updates.
Several travellers reported financial and professional anxieties due to cancellations:
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A Punjab-based worker travelling to Jeddah said his Air India flight had been cancelled, raising concerns about potential salary cuts.
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A passenger scheduled to begin a new job in Dubai said his SpiceJet flight was cancelled, leaving his employment uncertain.
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International travellers connecting to Europe and North America reported confusion over rebookings and accommodation support.
Many passengers also faced issues retrieving checked-in baggage after connecting flights were cancelled post-arrival.
Airlines Offer Rebooking Support
Air India stated that it is assisting affected passengers with rebooking and alternative travel arrangements. The airline said impacted travellers are being notified through their registered contact details.
Meanwhile, airport authorities urged patience, stating that on-ground teams are coordinating with airlines and stakeholders to minimise inconvenience and ensure passenger safety.
Ongoing Impact of Middle East Airspace Closures
The large-scale disruption stems from escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, leading several countries to temporarily close their airspace. As many European and North American routes from India pass through Middle Eastern corridors, Delhi airport has been significantly affected.
Aviation analysts suggest that until regional airspace restrictions are eased, flight schedules may remain volatile.
