The escalating conflict between the United States and Iran is now affecting international travel, with airfares between Abu Dhabi and Delhi witnessing a steep spike. Limited flight availability and aviation disruptions across West Asia have pushed ticket prices to nearly ₹70,000 for a one-way journey this week, significantly higher than usual fares.
The sudden surge has left travellers scrambling for seats as airlines adjust operations amid security concerns and restricted airspace across the region.
Limited flights drive up ticket prices
According to NDTV, the data shows that flights between Abu Dhabi and Delhi have become scarce due to disruptions in West Asian airspace. Currently, only one or two direct flights are operating daily on the route, sharply reducing the number of available seats.
With fewer flights in operation, demand has surged among travellers attempting to leave the Gulf or return to India, pushing fares sharply upward. Some passengers searching for last-minute tickets have found prices reaching up to ₹70,000 for economy class seats, far above the usual price range. Travel agents say the shortage of flights has created intense competition for available seats. Many travellers are also booking alternative routes with layovers, although those options are often longer and equally expensive.
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War disrupts aviation routes across West Asia
The aviation disruption is closely tied to the ongoing Iran-US conflict that began in late February. Military strikes, missile exchanges and security concerns have forced airlines to alter flight paths and avoid parts of West Asian airspace. These changes have increased flight times and operational costs for airlines. In addition, the conflict has pushed global oil prices higher, raising aviation fuel costs and prompting airlines to introduce fuel surcharges or increase ticket prices.
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The situation has created a ripple effect across global aviation, with rerouted flights, cancellations and limited aircraft availability affecting several international routes linked to the Gulf region. For travellers between the UAE and India, the result is a sharp and sudden jump in airfares. If the conflict continues and airspace restrictions remain in place, industry experts warn that ticket prices could stay elevated in the coming weeks.
