Geopolitical Tensions Force Flight Cancellations Between India and West Asia
Multiple airlines cancelled flights between Kerala, India, and West Asian destinations including Saudi Arabia and Qatar due to regional geopolitical tensions.
Geopolitical tensions in West Asia have led to the cancellation of numerous flights connecting Kerala, India, with destinations in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Between October 11 and 13, 2026, Cochin International Airport reported the cancellation of 10 services, while Calicut International Airport saw three departures cancelled on Sunday.
Impacted carriers include Akasa Air, which cancelled five services to Riyadh and Jeddah, and Flynas, which cut flights connecting both Kochi and Calicut with Riyadh. Air India Express cancelled services from Kochi to Doha and other flights from Calicut, while IndiGo cancelled a flight to Ras Al Khaimah. Saudia also cancelled a scheduled departure from Calicut.
Airport authorities have advised passengers to verify their flight statuses directly with airlines before traveling. Officials noted that further decisions regarding departures will depend on the evolving regional situation.
