Rerouted long‑haul flights resume: added time and tech stops on India–Europe/US routes
By Matteo Floris
Last updated on 4 March 2026
Major India–Europe and North America services have restarted using alternative flight paths that avoid conflict‑affected airspace. Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways and British Airways are operating longer routings, with some flights requiring fuel stops and adding 60–120 minutes. Airlines are adjusting schedules and routings over the Red Sea and the Mediterranean, while avoiding Iran, Iraq and Syria. Hotel demand is rising in cities such as Dubai, London and Paris due to delays and missed connections. Travelers should monitor flight status and consider flexible hotel bookings.
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Long‑haul links between India and Europe/North America have been reinstated after earlier suspensions tied to Middle Eastern airspace closures amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Israel, Iran and the United States. Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways and British Airways are operating with alternative routings that avoid high‑risk airspace, including Iran, Iraq and Syria, and instead use corridors over the Red Sea and the Mediterranean.
Air India is rebuilding its United States and Canada schedules from Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, routing into Europe via Egypt or Greece. To support the longer tracks, some flights now make technical refuelling stops in cities such as Vienna or Rome, adding around 60 to 120 minutes to total journey time. The airline also cites increased fuel carriage—up to four extra tonnes on some sectors—which contributes to operational complexity, including crew duty considerations and potential fare pressure.
Emirates and Qatar Airways report similar constraints. Both carriers are rerouting services over Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the Mediterranean while maintaining connectivity to key European destinations such as London, Frankfurt and Paris, and to North American points including New York and Toronto. These measures reduce exposure to closed or unsafe airspace but increase fuel burn, block times and costs.
The disruption is also impacting hospitality. Hotels in Dubai, London and Paris are seeing elevated demand as passengers affected by extended journeys or disrupted connections require accommodation. Large chains are facing tighter availability and fluctuating rates as they respond to late bookings.
Travelers should closely track flight status since schedules may change as air corridors evolve. Longer flight times and possible layovers are now common. Flexible hotel reservations are advisable, and airlines are providing more adaptable booking options, though fare and room rates may vary with demand.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delay
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Airlines affected:
Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways
Checked by:
Matteo Floris
Date updated:
4 March 2026
