The Civil Aviation Ministry of the Government of India is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East. There is a relief news for the passengers traveling between Saudi Arabia and India. From March 12, major Indian airlines like Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air are increasing the number of their flights to Riyadh. Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu himself is monitoring this entire situation so that passengers do not face any kind of problem.
Which airlines are providing services from 12th March?
The new schedule of flights is coming into effect from March 12 for passengers going from India to Riyadh. Under this, Air India and Air India Express are fully resuming their services to Riyadh. Indigo and Akasa Air will also start their flights on Mumbai-Riyadh-Mumbai route from March 12. SpiceJet has also got approval to use alternative airports so that there is no disruption in regional flights. Recently, on March 9, 45 inbound flights took off from the Middle East, carrying 7,047 passengers to India. Now connectivity is being strengthened by increasing focus on Riyadh route.
New rule on ticket price and refund
In view of the current situation, the government is also keeping a strict eye on the air fares. The ministry is ensuring that there is no sudden huge increase in flight ticket prices. Air India has imposed a fuel surcharge of $60 on international routes, while Air India Express, maintaining its low-cost model, has not imposed any fuel surcharge. Apart from this, passengers whose flights were affected due to the recent suspension are being given exemption in cancellation and rescheduling charges by Akasa Air and Air India.
Government’s preparation for the safety of passengers
Keeping in mind the safety of passengers, DGCA has allowed airlines to use Muscat International Airport as an alternative route. If for some reason flights going to Riyadh, Jeddah or Dubai have to be diverted, then Muscat Airport can be used. Along with this, the government has also given relaxation to airlines in slot management. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of External Affairs are in constant touch so that stranded Indians can be evacuated safely if needed. At present the movement of passengers is going on normally.
