Parwinder Sandhu
New Delhi, Mar 1 (.) Indian domestic airlines cancelled around 350 flights on Sunday. The development followed reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a joint US-Israeli military operation carried out in Tehran in the early hours of the day.
According to Iranian state media, the strikes targeted northern parts of the capital, including areas close to Khamenei’s residence and official offices. Several missiles reportedly struck near the presidential palace in Shemiran as well as locations in the vicinity of the Supreme Leader’s compound. While Iran’s presidential spokesperson had stated on Saturday that Khamenei was unharmed and had been relocated from Tehran after the attacks, state media confirmed his death.
In a statement issued on X, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said, “In view of airspace restrictions arising from geopolitical developments in the Middle East, a total of 350 flights operated by Indian domestic carriers have been cancelled on 01.03.2026. Passengers are advised to check their flight status with the concerned airlines and remain in close coordination with them for any required assistance.”
The Ministry also stated that it is in close coordination with airlines, airport operators, and other stakeholders to proactively monitor the situation and facilitate necessary passenger support.
In a tweet, Air India issued an advisory for its passengers regarding the cancellation of its flights. “In view of the current situation in the Middle East, Air India has cancelled all flights to destinations in the region until 2359 hours on 1 March. We are closely monitoring developments and remain in continuous coordination with the relevant authorities.”
“The safety and security of our passengers, crew and aircraft remain our highest priority. We will continue to assess the situation and take appropriate operational decisions as necessary. Affected passengers are being informed, and our teams are providing all required assistance to our passengers, including rebooking and refunds,” the tweet read.
Later in another post, the airlines announced enhanced travel flexibility for passengers affected by disruptions. The airline said that for tickets booked on or before February 28, 2026, with travel scheduled up to March 5, 2026, customers can reschedule their flights without any additional charges or opt for a full refund to their original mode of payment.
Stating that it continues to closely monitor developments, Air India emphasised that the safety of passengers and crew remains its top priority and advised travellers to review their plans, check flight status.
Spice Jet also announced the cancellation of its flights owing to ongoing airspace restrictions, and urged passengers to check their flight status before proceeding to the airport.
IndiGo on Sunday said it is “observing developments across parts of the Middle East and surrounding regions with utmost attentiveness,” adding, “We understand that this period may feel uncertain, and we want to reassure you that every decision is being taken with care and prudence.”
The airline announced that the temporary suspension of select international flights operating through Middle East airspace has been extended until March 2, 2026, 2359 hrs IST, describing the move as “a precautionary measure to ensure that we uphold the highest standards of safety for our customers and crew.”
Acknowledging potential inconvenience to passengers, the airline said customers with impacted bookings “may opt for alternate flight options or claim a full refund.”
It further stated, “In our continued effort to stand by you during this time, we are extending full flexibility and waivers for travel to and from the Middle East, along with other impacted international sectors, until 7th March 2026, for bookings made on or before 28th February 2026,” allowing travellers to seek a full refund or reschedule without additional charges.
IndiGo added that any further updates would be communicated through registered contact details and expressed appreciation for passengers’ “patience and understanding” as it continues to monitor the situation.
Meanwhile, according to FlightRadar24, more than 3,400 flights have been cancelled today across seven airports in the Middle East (DXB, DOH, AUH, SHJ, KWI, BAH, DWC), as many airspaces remain closed for security reasons.
. PWS RSA