Air India Express Restores Full Flight Network to West Asia

MUMBAI, India — Air India Express announced on July 2, 2026, that it has fully restored its West Asia flight network, ending the temporary suspension of services to Kuwait and Salalah in Oman. The resumption of these routes follows an improvement in regional security conditions, allowing the carrier to normalize its operations after recent geopolitical tensions necessitated a temporary reduction in flights.

The restoration process, which began on July 2, involves a phased increase in flight frequencies to ensure reliable connectivity for passengers traveling between India and the Gulf.

Reinstated Routes and Schedules

The airline’s phased rollout began with the resumption of the Kozhikode–Salalah route on July 2. Services between Kozhikode and Kuwait followed on July 3, while the Bengaluru–Kuwait route is set to recommence on July 4.

According to Air India Express, frequency on these routes will expand over the coming days to meet passenger demand:

• Kozhikode–Salalah: Operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Kozhikode–Kuwait: Initially operating once a week on Fridays, with services increasing to three times weekly starting July 5.

• Bengaluru–Kuwait: Starting with one weekly flight on July 4, expanding to three flights per week beginning July 7.

Additionally, the airline has reinstated its Muscat–Mangaluru service, further strengthening its footprint in the Sultanate of Oman. All flights to and from Kuwait are confirmed to operate through Terminal 4 at Kuwait International Airport.

Context of Restoration

The suspension of these services had been a precautionary measure taken by the airline in response to the heightened regional conflict in West Asia. With the easing of tensions, the Tata Group-owned carrier has moved quickly to reconnect its 13 destinations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Air India Express currently operates approximately 780 weekly flights between India and the West Asia region, connecting 18 Indian cities directly to major Gulf hubs.

Impact on Travelers

The restoration of these flights is a significant development for the large number of non-resident Indians (NRIs) and business travelers who rely on these direct connections. Passengers are encouraged to book tickets via the official Air India Express website, the mobile application, or other authorized booking channels. The airline maintains that it will continue to monitor the regional situation and update schedules as necessary to ensure passenger safety.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Network Status: Full restoration of all West Asia services effective July 2026.

• Resumed Destinations: Salalah (Oman) and Kuwait.

• Connectivity: The airline now links 18 Indian cities to 13 destinations across the Middle East.

• Operational Volume: Approximately 780 weekly flights are now operational between India and West Asia.

• Terminal Update: All Kuwait-bound flights operate via Terminal 4 at Kuwait International Airport.

FAQ

Are all West Asia flights now back to normal?

Yes, Air India Express has confirmed that connectivity to all destinations in its West Asia network has been fully restored as of July 2, 2026.

Where can I check the updated flight schedule?

Travelers can view real-time flight schedules and status updates through the official Air India Express website or its mobile application.

Why were the flights suspended in the first place?

The flights were temporarily suspended due to regional security concerns and heightened tensions in West Asia. Operations have resumed following an improvement in the overall security situation.

Source: Air India Express, The New Indian Express, The Economic Times, and Kuwait International Airport.