Air India UAE Non-Scheduled Flights

Prior to recent developments, Air India maintained a regular schedule of flights to Israel and the UAE. However, the ongoing conflict in West Asia has led to significant operational changes, including the suspension of all flights to Israel until May 31, 2026.

On April 6, 2026, Air India and Air India Express operated a total of 30 flights to and from the West Asia region. Among these, 10 were designated as non-scheduled flights specifically to and from the United Arab Emirates, marking a shift in their operational strategy.

This change comes as scheduled operations at UAE airports, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, remain suspended. Passengers who had booked flights on these suspended routes are being offered the option to rebook for a later date without additional charges or to request a full refund.

Air India continues to operate long-haul flights to destinations in North America, Europe, and Australia as scheduled, ensuring that some international travel remains unaffected. Additionally, Air India Express is allowing passengers to rebook on alternative services operating from any UAE station to destinations in India without incurring extra fees.

The airline is actively communicating with affected passengers, using registered mobile numbers to provide updates and rebooking options. This proactive approach aims to mitigate the inconvenience faced by travelers during this period of uncertainty.

According to reports, approximately 40,000 Indians in Israel are currently facing challenges due to the suspension of flights. In response, Air India has established a 24×7 emergency helpline for Indians in Israel, and the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has initiated a large-scale registration drive for its citizens.

Air India and Air India Express are operating these non-scheduled flights with the necessary approvals from both Indian and UAE regulatory authorities. This development highlights the evolving operational constraints affecting air travel between India and key West Asian hubs.

As the situation continues to unfold, the airline’s ability to adapt its services will be crucial in addressing the needs of passengers affected by the ongoing conflict and flight suspensions.

Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining communication with passengers during such disruptions, as it helps build trust and ensures travelers are informed of their options.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of these operational changes, but the immediate focus remains on providing support to those impacted by the flight suspensions.