Thousands of Indian passengers are stranded in different countries due to closure of airspace in UAE. Big airlines like Etihad Airways and Air India have suspended their flights for some time. Amidst this crisis, the Indian government and Indian embassies abroad have become active so that the stranded citizens can be brought back safely. The Civil Aviation Ministry is closely monitoring the situation.
What are the new rules related to airlines flights and refunds?
Etihad Airways has suspended all its regular commercial flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 2:00 pm on Wednesday, March 4. The company has issued easy rules for refund and rebooking for passengers so that people do not suffer financial loss. Passengers have been advised to contact their airlines instead of going directly to the airport.
Passengers who have tickets for February 28 or before can rebook for free till March 18. Etihad and Akasa Air are offering full refunds for travel till March 7. IndiGo is also offering booking change facility and fee waiver for flights to the Middle East. Air India and Air India Express have suspended their services till 11:59 pm on March 3.
What steps has the government taken to help the stranded Indians?
The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India are continuously working on this situation. IndiGo is operating 10 special relief flights on March 3 to evacuate stranded passengers in Jeddah. Indian Embassies in Kuwait and UAE are working with local authorities and hotel management to provide accommodation and food assistance to the Indians.
Airline status and latest updates Etihad Airways flights completely closed till 2 pm on March 4 Air India services suspended till 11:59 pm on March 3 IndiGo 10 special relief flights from Jeddah to India Emirates & flydubai trying to restart limited flights
The ministry has issued helpline numbers 011-24604283 and 011-24632987 on which hundreds of complaints have been resolved. Long-haul flights going to Europe or America are being diverted via Oman and Saudi Arabia, increasing travel time. Passengers have been asked to leave their homes only after checking the status of their flight.
