IndiGo extends free waivers on cancellations for Middle East and Istanbul flights

IndiGo on Friday announced that it is extending free waivers on ticket cancellations for flights to and from the Middle East and Istanbul, Turkey, until March 31, 2026. The airline said it is closely monitoring the situation in the region affected by the ongoing US-Iran conflict and providing real-time updates on its website and social media channels.

The move follows a series of flight disruptions that began on February 28 after joint US-Israel strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliation. Since then, India’s major carriers, including IndiGo and Air India, suspended flights to all destinations in the Middle East, with more than 500 flights cancelled between February 28 and March 3 alone. The Civil Aviation Ministry reported a total of 1,609 cancellations by Indian and foreign carriers during the initial days of the conflict.

In a regulatory filing, IndiGo said it continues to assess the evolving situation and recalibrate flight schedules. The airline is coordinating with government authorities to gradually restore operations while ensuring passenger safety. Operational teams are also planning repatriation flights and other mitigation measures to reduce inconvenience to travellers.

Despite widespread cancellations, IndiGo announced that it will operate 17 departures covering 34 sectors to eight Middle East destinations on Friday. The airline urged passengers not to proceed to airports unless notified, and said its teams are reaching out directly to affected customers through registered contact details.

The ongoing airspace restrictions have significantly impacted international travel, with over 27,000 flights to Middle East hubs cancelled globally since February 28. IndiGo stressed that it will continue monitoring the revenue environment and regional developments, aiming to maintain operational stability while minimising disruption for passengers.