IndiGo Suspends Bhubaneswar-Abu Dhabi Flights Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

IndiGo has suspended its recently launched Bhubaneswar-Abu Dhabi route indefinitely due to escalating tensions in the Middle East and resulting airspace restrictions. The suspension, effective from Monday, June 23, impacts flights 6E 1442 (Bhubaneswar to Abu Dhabi) and 6E 1441 (Abu Dhabi to Bhubaneswar), and aligns with similar cancellations by airlines across the globe.

The airline’s decision follows Iran’s missile strikes on U.S. and Israeli targets, prompting multiple nations—including the UAE, Qatar, and Iraq—to close their airspace. The move has severely disrupted international air traffic, particularly through Gulf hubs like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.

Route Launched with Fanfare, Suspended Within Days

The Bhubaneswar-Abu Dhabi route was inaugurated with great enthusiasm on June 12 by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The route marked a major step in boosting Odisha’s global connectivity, with IndiGo initially scheduling three flights per week.

However, with mounting geopolitical instability, operations on the route have come to an abrupt halt. Airport officials at Biju Patnaik International Airport confirmed that affected passengers have been notified via email and SMS. They can either rebook their flights or request a full refund through IndiGo’s website or customer support.

Efforts to Support Affected Passengers

“We regret the inconvenience caused to passengers,” said a senior official at Bhubaneswar Airport. “The closure of airspace over the Middle East has directly impacted this route. We have set up help desks at the airport to assist travelers and strongly advise passengers to verify their flight status before coming to the airport.”

Wider Impact on International Aviation

Etihad Airways, based at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, has also cancelled multiple routes, including flights to Tel Aviv, until at least July 15. Aviation analysts warn that the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict could severely affect global air travel, particularly routes that rely on access through the Gulf region.

Travelers Frustrated by Sudden Disruptions

Passengers expressed disappointment over the cancellations, citing the route’s importance for business and family travel. “My clients are upset about the sudden changes,” said Priya Mohanty, a Bhubaneswar-based travel agent. “The Middle East situation is extremely volatile. We’re advising everyone to be flexible with their plans and monitor updates closely.”

As uncertainty looms over regional stability, airlines and passengers alike are bracing for continued disruptions in the coming weeks.