IndiGo Suspends Bhubaneswar–Abu Dhabi Flight Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

Bhubaneswar: Barely days after its inauguration, IndiGo’s direct flight service between Bhubaneswar and Abu Dhabi has been temporarily suspended due to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The airline announced that flights 6E 1442 (Bhubaneswar to Abu Dhabi) and 6E 1441 (Abu Dhabi to Bhubaneswar) have been halted as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety.

The decision follows recent escalations in the region, particularly heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, and reports of US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Citing evolving risks, IndiGo took to social media to confirm the suspension of multiple international services, including the Bhubaneswar-Abu Dhabi route.

“In view of the evolving situation in the Middle East, our flight operations to and from Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Dammam, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Madinah, Fujairah, Jeddah, Muscat, Sharjah, Riyadh, Ras AI-Khaimah and Tbilisi have been suspended at least until 1000 hrs today. We understand the impact this may have on your travel plans, and sincerely regret the inconvenience. Please be assured that this decision has been taken as a proactive safety measure,” the airline stated in a tweet.

The Bhubaneswar–Abu Dhabi service had only recently taken off on June 12, with much fanfare. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had flagged off the inaugural flight at the Biju Patnaik International Airport, marking a significant milestone in the state’s international connectivity and economic outreach.