Aviation – Over 150,000 Passengers Travel From Gulf To India In Two Weeks
Aviation – Passenger travel data highlights strong Gulf–India air movement –
More than 150,000 passengers travelled from Gulf countries to India between February 28 and March 11, according to data released by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The ministry reported that a total of 1,50,457 air travellers used these routes during the two-week period as airlines gradually stabilized flight operations across the region.
Officials said the movement of passengers remained steady despite operational challenges linked to the evolving security situation in parts of West Asia. Authorities and airlines have been working together to maintain stable air connectivity and ensure that travellers reach their destinations safely.
Flights scheduled from multiple West Asian cities –
To support passenger travel, Indian airlines scheduled 57 inbound flights from several major cities across West Asia on Thursday, March 12. These flights departed from locations including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Jeddah, Muscat, Ras Al Khaimah, Riyadh and Sharjah.
According to the ministry, the flights were planned based on operational feasibility and prevailing conditions in the region. Airlines made adjustments to flight schedules where necessary to ensure passenger safety and maintain orderly operations.
The ministry noted that the coordinated effort between airlines and aviation authorities has helped maintain essential connectivity between India and several Gulf countries where a large number of Indian citizens live and work.
Air connectivity with Riyadh resumes –
A key development during this period was the restoration of direct air services between India and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that Indian carriers resumed flight operations on this route beginning March 12.
On the first day after services restarted, three flights were operated to Mumbai by Air India and IndiGo. In addition, Air India Express operated one flight connecting Riyadh with Calicut. Officials said the resumption of these services has restored an important air link between India and the Saudi capital.
Riyadh remains a major hub for Indian travellers due to the large expatriate population working in Saudi Arabia. Restoring flights on this route has helped ease travel for passengers who had been waiting for services to resume.
Government monitoring regional developments –
The Civil Aviation Ministry stated that it is closely observing the situation in West Asia and remains in regular communication with airlines and other stakeholders. The goal is to ensure that passenger travel continues smoothly even as circumstances evolve.
Authorities are also keeping a close watch on air ticket prices during this period. The ministry said it is monitoring fares to ensure that airlines maintain reasonable pricing and that passengers are not affected by sudden spikes in ticket costs.
Airlines have been asked to make necessary operational adjustments in response to the prevailing conditions. These steps include reviewing flight schedules, ensuring crew readiness and implementing safety measures that support secure and orderly travel operations.
Passenger safety remains the primary concern for aviation authorities and airlines. The ministry emphasized that any further decisions regarding flights will be taken after assessing developments in the region and consulting with relevant aviation partners.
Officials said the situation will continue to be reviewed regularly, and additional measures may be introduced if required to support passengers travelling between India and West Asia.