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Ernakulam, June 3. Amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia and rising global oil prices, Kuwait’s airspace was suddenly closed on Wednesday, due to which Air India Express service from Kochi International Airport to Bahrain was cancelled. Flight number IX 439 was scheduled to take off from Kochi to Bahrain but was canceled at the last minute.

As per schedule, the flight was scheduled to depart from Nedumbassery for Bahrain at 11.45 am on Wednesday, hence, the passengers residing outside Kerala had reached the airport early and all the security checking including boarding of the passengers had also been completed. However, an emergency message came from the control room that Kuwait’s airspace had been suddenly closed, forcing the authorities to immediately cancel the flight service.

Eventually all 119 passengers were dropped off at the airport, ready for boarding. Due to this sudden interruption, there was an atmosphere of tension and anxiety at the airport for hours. Subsequently, the Customs and Immigration Department intervened and canceled the passenger’s immigration clearance and returned his luggage. After this the passengers were taken out of the airport and sent back home.

Missile attack in the Middle East is being cited as the reason

The reason for the sudden closure of airspace is being attributed to the recent increased military tension between Iran and other neighboring countries of the Middle East. According to international media reports, the missile and drone attacks targeted certain strategic places and residential areas in Bahrain, which were successfully intercepted and eliminated by the Bahrain Defense Force. Keeping safety and security in mind, the Civil Aviation Authority has imposed a temporary ban on flight services.

people coming from outside in crisis

At present, due to closure of Kuwait airspace, hundreds of non-resident Keralites, who were planning to return to their places of work after Eid and summer holidays, are in great trouble. The visas of many of these people are about to expire and there are situations which may affect their jobs.

Cochin International Airport Limited assures ticket refund

Meanwhile, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) officials have said that Air India Express will issue a clear notification later regarding alternative travel arrangements or full refund of ticket money for the passengers of the canceled flights.