Iran-Israel War: Dubai-Bound Emirates Returns To Bengaluru Mid-Air, 42 Flights Cancelled Amid West Asia Airspace Closure

Last Updated:March 03, 2026, 13:31 IST

A Dubai-bound Emirates flight EK 569 from Bengaluru to Dubai, was forced to return mid-journey, while dozens of flights connecting southern India to major Gulf hubs were cancelled

As tensions linked to the escalating Iran–Israel conflict continue to ripple across the region, the impact is now being felt far beyond the immediate conflict zone. Airspace closures stretching across parts of West Asia have forced airlines to cancel, suspend or reroute services, turning key international corridors into uncertain territory.

What began as selective diversions has evolved into wider operational disruption, affecting routes to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Doha and leaving passengers in cities such as Bengaluru navigating sudden cancellations and delayed departures.

A Dubai-bound Emirates flight EK 569 from Bengaluru to Dubai, was forced to return mid-journey, while dozens of flights connecting southern India to major Gulf hubs were cancelled within hours. For passengers, what appeared to be a routine early-morning departure quickly became part of a broader regional shutdown reshaping international travel routes in real time.

What Happened to Emirates Flight EK 569?

Flight EK 569 departed Bengaluru at 4.30 am with 56 passengers on board, all of whom were UAE nationals or resident permit holders. The service had been cleared to operate only to Dubai. However, following the closure of airspace in parts of West Asia, the aircraft turned back and landed safely at Kempegowda International Airport.

A day earlier, Bangalore International Airport Limited had announced that Emirates would operate its A388 aircraft on the EK 568/569 rotation between Dubai and Bengaluru. While EK 568 from Dubai landed in Bengaluru as scheduled, the return leg was unable to proceed due to the developing situation.

Flight operations between West Asia and Bengaluru had been suspended since February 28 amid escalating regional tensions. Services began resuming late on March 2, with an Etihad flight arriving from Abu Dhabi, marking the first inbound movement after the temporary halt.

How Many Flights Have Been Cancelled So Far?

By 3 pm on March 3, a total of 42 flights at Bengaluru airport had been cancelled because of the airspace restrictions. According to airport officials, this included 21 arrivals and 21 departures. The most affected routes were Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE, Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam in Saudi Arabia, and Doha in Qatar.

What Support Is Available at Airport?

To assist affected passengers, a dedicated Help Desk has been set up at the kerbside of Terminal 2. The desk is managing queries and offering on-ground support until airline representatives are able to take over.

Airport authorities said the Help Desk at the Bengaluru airport is functioning as a single-window support channel, guiding passengers to the appropriate ground handlers. In addition, KIA is providing chairs, drinking water, snacks, medical assistance, sanitary pads, charging stations and a makeshift feeding facility at the kerbside. Wheelchairs are also available on request.

Airport officials confirmed that further updates would be shared later in the evening.

News cities bengaluru-news Iran-Israel War: Dubai-Bound Emirates Returns To Bengaluru Mid-Air, 42 Flights Cancelled Amid West Asia Airspace Closure