India extends flight ban until end of month

istock-Yatrik Sheth

Following a record increase in COVID-19 infections, India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation has extended the ban on regular, scheduled international flights into and out of the country until midnight on May 31.

Flights for evacuating overseas Indian citizens, known as "Vande Bharat" flights will continue. 

Unless suspended by other countries, temporary flying arrangements between specific nations, known as "air bubbles" will also continue.

"Restrictions shall not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the DGCA," said the order signed by Sunil Kumar, Joint Director General.

It added, "International scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis."

Emirates Airline recently extended their suspension of passenger flights from India to the UAE until May 14. 

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