Delhi Airport Issues Passenger Advisory for Westbound Flights
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) issued a formal advisory on Wednesday, urging international passengers to verify the latest flight schedules with their respective airlines. This recommendation comes in response to potential delays or changes affecting some westbound international flights, attributed to the ongoing geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
Official Statement and Recommendations
In its advisory, DIAL explicitly stated, "Due to the current geopolitical developments in the Middle East, some westbound international flights may see delays or schedule changes. Passengers are advised to check the latest updates with their respective airlines before heading to the airport." The advisory was disseminated via social media platforms, including a post from the official Delhi Airport account, which included hashtags such as #DelhiAirport and #PassengerAdvisory.
DIAL provided additional resources for travelers to manage their journeys effectively. Passengers are encouraged to monitor real-time flight information through the official airport website at www.newdelhiairport.in. For immigration-related queries, assistance can be sought by contacting the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) via email at afrro.igia@nic.in. The airport also highlighted short-stay accommodation options near the facility, including Round D Clock and various hotels in the Aerocity area. Furthermore, DIAL recommended the Hoi App as an essential travel companion for navigating Delhi Airport efficiently.
The advisory reassured passengers that all other flights are operating as per their scheduled timings, expressing appreciation for passenger patience and cooperation during this period of uncertainty.
Air India Announces Fuel Surcharge Hike
In a related development, Air India disclosed on Tuesday its decision to implement a phased expansion of fuel surcharges on both domestic and international routes. The airline attributed this move to a steep increase in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, which have surged since early March 2026 due to supply disruptions linked to the geopolitical situation in the Gulf region.
According to Air India's statement, ATF constitutes nearly 40 percent of an airline's operating costs, and the recent price escalation has placed substantial strain on operational economics. The statement further noted, "In India, this pressure is amplified by high Excise Duty and VAT on ATF in major metro cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, magnifying cost... and placing substantial strain on airline operating economics."
The new fuel surcharge will be rolled out in three distinct phases and will apply to all flights operated by Air India, including those under its subsidiary, Air India Express. This adjustment reflects the broader impact of regional tensions on the aviation industry's cost structures.
Background: Escalating Tensions in West Asia
These aviation-related advisories and adjustments occur against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia. The situation intensified following the reported killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint strike by the United States and Israel on February 28. This event triggered retaliatory attacks by Tehran on Israeli and U.S. military assets across the region.
In a recent development, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the launch of multiple fresh waves under its retaliatory "Operation True Promise 4." The force confirmed that the "37th wave" of this operation was executed late Tuesday night, underscoring the persistent volatility in the area.
The confluence of these geopolitical factors has directly influenced aviation operations, prompting proactive measures from airport authorities and airlines to mitigate disruptions and inform travelers accordingly.
