India to restart scheduled commercial international flights from March 27

India has finally lifted its ban on scheduled international commercial flights after a period of two years. The country had suspended international flights after the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic in March, 2020.

As per a statement by the Civil Aviation Ministry, the country has now decided to lift the ban after having recognised the increased vaccination coverage across the globe.

The government has decided that March 27, 2022, will be the date when this ban will be lifted.

In a statement, the Civil Aviation Ministry reported, “After having recognized the increased vaccination coverage across the globe and in consultation with the stakeholders, the Government of India has decided to resume scheduled commercial international passenger services to/from India from 27.03.2022, i.e. start of Summer Schedule 2022.”

India had air bubble arrangements going on since July 2020. Under this scheme, India tied up with select countries, and operated flights in each other’s territories. This, of course, came with its own restrictions and normal scheduled flights were banned all this time. According to Civil Aviation Minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, air bubble arrangements stand revoked from March 27.

The reopening of international flights however is not averse to guidelines. According to the Civil Aviation Ministry, the international operations need to follow all guidelines as issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.