Rising tensions in the Middle East have caused significant disruption to international air travel, with the closure of airspace over Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain affecting operations at Chennai International Airport.
On Tuesday, authorities confirmed that 11 international flights, six departures and five arrivals, were cancelled due to the unfolding crisis.
IndiGo, Qatar Airways, and Air India affected
IndiGo and Qatar Airways grounded flights departing from Chennai to Kuwait, Muscat, Abu Dhabi (2), and Doha (2).
Qatar Airways, IndiGo, and Air India Express also cancelled incoming flights from Doha (2), Kuwait (2), and Abu Dhabi.
Airport officials stated that more disruptions are likely if regional instability continues.
They urged passengers flying to or from affected Gulf countries to check with their airlines before heading to the airport.
Diverted Qatar Airways flights land in Chennai
Adding to the airport’s operational strain, three Qatar Airways flights en route from Thailand to Doha were denied entry into Qatari airspace and diverted to Chennai.
The aircraft landed safely around 2:00 AM on Tuesday, airport sources confirmed.
Flights connecting Chennai with key international destinations such as London, Dubai, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Singapore are experiencing significant delays due to ongoing airspace restrictions in the Gulf region.
Crisis stems from the Iran-US-Israel conflict
The aviation chaos stems from a broader geopolitical conflict that escalated when the United States conducted coordinated airstrikes on Iranian military facilities.
In retaliation, Iran launched missile strikes targeting US bases in Qatar.
This prompted the immediate closure of regional airspace by several Gulf nations, including Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain.
Chennai Airport is on high alert
Chennai Airport officials said they are closely monitoring the situation and working with airlines and regulatory authorities to manage disruptions and reduce inconvenience to travelers.
Airlines strongly advise air passengers to stay updated on flight schedules through their official channels as the situation remains volatile.
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