The conflict between India and Pakistan has had a significant impact on aviation
The tension between India and Pakistan is having major consequences for the global aviation industry. As the fighting in Kashmir grows, airlines have canceled and rescheduled flights, causing significant delays.
Regional media reported intense shelling along the disputed Line of Control from the night of May 6 to the morning of May 7, killing at least 16 civilians and an Indian soldier in the Poonch region. On May 9, both sides accused one other of shooting down flying objects targeting their respective military sites.
Airline flights are significantly impacted
In the early aftermath of the May 6 assaults, dozens of European, Middle Eastern, and Asian airlines canceled or redirected flights to avoid airspace over the crisis zone. Long-haul routes were redirected via the Arabian Sea and Central Asia.
On May 8, Indian airlines canceled approximately 430 flights, which accounted for 3% of the national schedule. According to The Economic Times, over 147 flights in Pakistan were canceled, accounting for 17% of total daily flights.
Pakistan
Pakistan blocked its airspace for 48 hours before announcing that it would reopen and airports would resume normal operations. However, it is uncertain whether airlines will restart regular operations.
Pakistani authorities say 57 international flights were in their airspace when India launched the air attacks, endangering Gulf airlines and passengers. New Delhi International Airport stated operations were regular, but some planes were impacted by changes in airspace. Passengers were encouraged to contact their respective airlines directly.
Major airlines were affected
The Civil Aviation Authority of India has also ordered the closure of other northern airports, including Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Dharamshala, and Amritsar, causing domestic carriers such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India to cancel flights to these locations.
The Association of Asian Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has raised worry over GPS spoofing and disruptions in the combat zone. Major airlines such Pakistan Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, and Flydubai have also canceled flights to northern towns like Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, and Amritsar. Emirates has requested that travelers not travel to the airport if they are in the affected areas.
Can I cancel my flight or holiday and receive a refund?
Passengers flying from the United Kingdom or the European Union (EU) are entitled to assistance if their flight is cancelled or delayed. Passengers are entitled to alternative flights, food, and lodging if needed.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has stated that airlines must assist passengers until an alternate flight is available, no matter how long the wait.
Passengers must be accommodated on any flight that is still available on the day of departure, even if it is operated by a competitive airline. If a flight is cancelled, passengers may request a refund or an alternative flight.
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