Bengaluru: A total of 21 flights were cancelled at Kempegowda International Airport on Wednesday due to airspace restrictions that affected services operating to several destinations in West Asia, according to airport authorities.
Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which manages the airport, said the restrictions disrupted both arriving and departing flights, leading to multiple cancellations during the day.
In a statement issued on March 11, BIAL said that the cancellations included 11 incoming flights and 10 departing flights.
Officials explained that the disruption was caused by airspace restrictions affecting flight routes between India and several West Asian destinations.
The restrictions forced airlines to cancel services operating on certain international sectors, particularly those connecting Bengaluru with major cities in the Gulf region.
Airport authorities said the decision to cancel the flights was taken by airlines after assessing the operational challenges caused by the restrictions.
According to the airport operator, the cancellations initially affected flights operating to and from cities such as Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Dubai and Doha.
These destinations are among the busiest international routes from Bengaluru, catering to a large number of travellers including migrant workers, business travellers and tourists.
Airlines operating services on these sectors were required to review their schedules after the airspace limitations affected their flight paths and operational feasibility.
Airport officials said airlines are closely monitoring the situation and adjusting their schedules depending on the evolving conditions.
Passengers scheduled to travel on the affected flights were advised to check with their respective airlines for updated information regarding rescheduling or alternative travel arrangements.
Airlines are also assisting passengers with rebooking options or refunds where applicable.
Despite the cancellations, overall airport operations continued as scheduled for other domestic and international flights not affected by the restrictions.
Authorities at the airport stated that coordination with airlines and aviation authorities is ongoing to minimise inconvenience to passengers.
Passengers travelling on international routes were advised to check their flight status in advance before heading to the airport to avoid inconvenience.
Airport authorities have urged passengers to rely on official airline communication and verified updates regarding flight schedules.
Officials said further changes could occur depending on how long the airspace restrictions remain in effect.
Travellers are advised to remain alert to updates from airlines and airport authorities while planning their journeys.
The situation is being monitored closely, and operations are expected to normalise once airspace restrictions affecting the routes are lifted.