Air India and Air India Express are operating a combined total of 50 flights to and from West Asia today, March 18, 2026. This includes 26 scheduled and 24 non-scheduled services, covering key destinations such as Jeddah, Muscat, and major hubs in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The move comes amid regional disruptions caused by ongoing tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Of the 50 flights, 14 are connecting India with Jeddah. Air India is running return services from Delhi and Mumbai, while Air India Express is operating flights from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mangalore, and Kozhikode. Additionally, 12 scheduled flights are being operated to Muscat by Air India Express, with departures from Delhi, Kannur, Kochi, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram.
To meet demand, 24 non-scheduled flights have been added to routes across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Other carriers are adjusting operations as well: Etihad and Emirates continue to serve key cities, while Qatar Airways remains grounded. IndiGo has suspended flights to Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, Dammam, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah until March 28.
Air India’s decision to maintain 50 flights today underscores its commitment to ensuring connectivity between India and West Asia despite geopolitical instability. Passengers are advised to check with Air India or Air India Express for real-time updates, as airspace closures and regional conflict may cause delays or cancellations.
