Doha, Qatar — March 11, 2026
Despite escalating tensions in the Middle East, Qatar Airways has decided to continue operating flights while implementing strict safety measures and route adjustments. The airline announced that it will operate 29 international flights on Thursday, primarily departing from Doha to global destinations.
The decision comes as the region faces heightened military activity following missile exchanges between Iran and Israel, making several air corridors in West Asia increasingly sensitive for commercial aviation.
Flights Continue Under Enhanced Safety Measures
Airlines operating in the region are closely monitoring the situation due to the ongoing conflict affecting key airspaces.
According to Qatar Airways, the airline will continue services while strictly following international aviation safety protocols. However, some flights may take longer alternative routes to avoid potentially dangerous airspace.
Many aircraft are now being rerouted through safer corridors over countries such as Turkey or other regional airspaces, which could lead to longer flight durations and possible delays.
Passenger Advisory: Refunds and Rebooking Available
Qatar Airways has issued important guidance for passengers traveling during the ongoing tensions.
The airline confirmed that travelers whose flights are affected due to security concerns will be eligible for:
Free rebooking options
Full ticket refunds
Passengers are strongly advised to check their flight status online before leaving for the airport to avoid inconvenience.
Other Airlines Suspend Some Routes
While Qatar Airways has continued its operations, several major international airlines have adopted a more cautious approach.
Carriers such as Lufthansa and Emirates have temporarily suspended certain flights to cities such as Tehran and Beirut due to security concerns.
Airlines across the region are continuously reassessing their flight routes as the geopolitical situation evolves.
Airfares From India to Gulf Countries Rise Sharply
The ongoing conflict has also begun affecting international travel costs, particularly for passengers flying from India to Gulf destinations.
Airlines have raised fares due to several operational challenges, including higher fuel prices and longer flight routes.
Key Factors Driving Fare Increases
Fuel Surcharge Introduced
Air India announced that starting March 12, 2026, an additional $10 surcharge (around ₹840) will be applied to new bookings on flights to West Asia.
Overall Ticket Price Increase
Indian carriers have raised international fares by an average of about 15%, with some sensitive routes witnessing even higher increases.
Impact on Domestic Flights
Due to rising aviation fuel costs, airlines have also increased domestic flight surcharges by ₹399 per ticket.
Current Ticket Prices From New Delhi to Dubai
Air travel demand and restricted airspace have significantly increased ticket prices on Gulf routes.
Estimated round-trip economy fares for New Delhi – Dubai travel between March 11 and March 15 include:
Connecting flights (multiple airlines): Starting around ₹54,691
Connecting flight via SpiceJet: From ₹56,480
Nonstop flight (multiple airlines): From ₹63,691
Nonstop flight via Air Arabia: From ₹68,427
Travel analysts say these prices could continue rising if tensions persist and airspace restrictions remain in place.
Why Airfares Are Increasing
Several factors are contributing to the rise in ticket prices:
1. Sharp Rise in Jet Fuel Costs
Aviation fuel prices have increased by more than 56% since late February, significantly raising airline operating expenses.
2. Longer Flight Routes
With restrictions over airspace above Iraq and Iran, aircraft must travel longer paths, consuming more fuel.
3. Higher Insurance Premiums
Flights operating near conflict zones now require higher insurance coverage, adding further costs for airlines.
Travel Advisory for Passengers
Aviation experts advise travelers to carefully plan international trips to the Middle East during this period of instability.
Passengers whose travel is not urgent may consider postponing bookings, as current ticket prices remain significantly higher than usual and flight schedules could continue to change.
