NEW DELHI: In a major relief to air travellers, the flight operations between India and Riyadh restarted after disruptions due to developments in West Asia. The Ministry of Civil Aviation said it is closely monitoring the regional situation and its possible impact on aviation while airlines gradually bring services back to normal.

Indian carriers resumed flights on the India–Riyadh route from March 12. The corridor is widely used by Indian workers, business travellers and families living in Saudi Arabia. The return of flights has brought relief to many passengers who faced uncertainty over travel plans in recent days.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the West Asia region and its impact on air travel between India and countries in the region. Airlines are undertaking necessary operational adjustments in view of the prevailing conditions to ensure passenger safety and the orderly conduct of flight operations.

In this context, flight operations by Indian carriers to/from Riyadh have resumed from 12 March 2026. On the first day of resumption, three services are being operated to Mumbai by Air India and IndiGo, and one service to Calicut by Air India Express, thereby restoring important air connectivity between India and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

During the period 28 February to 11 March 2026, a total of 1,50,457 air passengers travelled from the Gulf countries to India.

Further, Indian carriers have scheduled 57 inbound flights on 12 March 2026 from various cities in the West Asia, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Jeddah, Muscat, Ras Al Khaimah, Riyadh and Sharjah, subject to operational feasibility and prevailing conditions.

The Ministry is maintaining close coordination with airlines and other concerned stakeholders to facilitate smooth passenger movement. Airfares are also being closely monitored to ensure that ticket prices remain reasonable and that there is no undue surge during this period.

Passengers are advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding flight schedules and travel arrangements.