The escalating military tensions in West Asia following joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran have begun to impact international aviation, including air traffic operations connected to Punjab and Chandigarh.
Several flights operating between India and Middle Eastern destinations have been cancelled due to security advisories and temporary airspace restrictions. Services connecting Punjab with the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai and Sharjah, were particularly affected.
At the Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport, passenger movement increased significantly after multiple flight cancellations were announced, leaving hundreds of travellers bound for Gulf destinations waiting for further updates.
Airport Director Bhupinder Singh confirmed that an IndiGo flight arriving from Sharjah at 9 PM on Saturday was cancelled.
He further stated that an Air India Express flight scheduled to depart from Amritsar to Dubai at 1:15 AM was also cancelled. Earlier, a SpiceJet flight scheduled for 7:50 AM departure to Dubai on Sunday had been suspended.
Airport authorities emphasised that passenger safety remains the highest priority and that every effort is being made to minimise inconvenience caused by operational disruptions. Flight schedule updates are being regularly shared through official airport communication channels.
At the Chandigarh International Airport, a flight scheduled for departure to Dubai at 4:50 PM on Saturday was also cancelled due to regional airspace restrictions.
Although domestic and morning flight operations at Chandigarh airport remained largely normal, aviation services were later affected as the security situation in the Gulf region deteriorated.
Aviation sources said several international flight routes are being rerouted to ensure passenger safety, which may result in longer travel durations and possible delays.
Passengers are advised to confirm flight schedules with their respective airlines before reaching the airport. Further operational updates are expected depending on developments in the Middle East.