Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai has prolonged its restrictions on international airlines, permitting only one flight daily to its airports until May 31, amidst the ongoing Iran crisis. This move is poised to have a considerable effect on global carriers, particularly Indian airlines, which have the largest flight volumes to the city.

As per documents reviewed by Reuters, the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) has expressed its apprehensions to the Indian government, claiming to represent key airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

In a communication dated March 31, the FIA has urged Indian officials to engage diplomatically with Dubai to lift the imposed limits. Should these restrictions persist, the federation has indicated that they might consider reciprocal actions against UAE airlines, such as Emirates and flydubai.

The limitations impact both Dubai International Airport (DXB)—known for being one of the busiest international airports globally—and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Airlines are restricted to one round trip per day during the summer schedule between April 20 and May 31.

Dubai Airports mentioned that additional flight slots might be granted only if feasible capacity allows. Nevertheless, Indian airlines contend that the existing regulations foster an uneven competitive landscape since UAE carriers can still conduct multiple flights each day.

This situation is particularly detrimental to Indian airlines. Data reveals that Air India and Air India Express had plans for over 750 flights to Dubai in the April-May timeframe, while IndiGo scheduled 481 flights. The one-flight-per-day restriction significantly hampers their operational capabilities.

IndiGo has highlighted that these limitations have “greatly constrained” their operations, resulting in underutilized aircraft and operational capacity. Air India Express echoed similar sentiments, noting that these restrictions have diminished travel choices for passengers originating from smaller Indian cities.

Adding complexity to the scenario are the existing hurdles faced by Indian airlines, including soaring fuel prices and longer routes caused by restricted access to Pakistani airspace.

Several international airlines, including Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways, have temporarily ceased their operations to Dubai until at least May 31, redirecting focus to alternative routes, mainly between Asia and Europe, where demand stays robust.

With India being Dubai’s largest passenger market—welcoming nearly 11.9 million travelers in 2025—the ongoing limitations are projected to have considerable commercial repercussions, particularly for Indian aviation stakeholders.

Industry experts caution that unless a harmonious solution is established soon, these restrictions could incur substantial revenue losses and exacerbate tensions in India-UAE aviation relations.

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