CHENNAI, March 2, 2026 — Air travel at Chennai International Airport was severely disrupted this week as ongoing airspace closures and restrictions linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East forced airlines to cancel dozens of flights. Authorities reported that over 60 arrivals and departures were cancelled across international routes, particularly those bound for Gulf destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Muscat, leaving many passengers stranded.
The cancellations stem from extensive airspace closures over parts of the Middle East following recent geopolitical hostilities that prompted countries to restrict civilian traffic. As a result, airlines including major carriers from the Gulf region and Indian operators suspended services or rerouted flights, significantly affecting Chennai’s international schedules.
Airport officials and airline representatives have advised travellers to check the latest flight status with their carriers and make contingency arrangements. Local authorities have also worked to manage passenger flow within terminals and issue travel advisories amid the uncertainty.
The disruptions reflect broader ripple effects on global aviation networks as closures over key Middle Eastern airspace continue, prompting widespread cancellations and reroutings of flights not only at Chennai but across other Indian airports. News as reported.
