After months of closure, international flights gradually resumed services around the world with various conditions. This staggered reopening period saw countries exercise their right to ban flights from high-risk countries. Foreign flights have also been banned in the interest of local airlines. After India started international flights as part of the Vande Bharat Mission and the air bubbles, several countries have so far opposed flights from India. Subsequently, some of the problems have been resolved.
Here is a list of the countries and why they objected
United States: In May, the US administration imposed restrictions on the Vande Bharat Mission’s flights, saying the Indian government has been applying discriminatory treatment to US airlines by banning them from operating similar flights. The problem was solved when India and the US established an air bubble under which airlines from both countries will be able to carry passengers.
UAE: Shortly after the United States, the United Arab Emirates expressed a similar concern as India did not allow any flights from the UAE. UAE authorities said in June that if Air India flights carry UAE citizens, a special permit would also be required. After this, an air bubble was also established with the UAE.
Also read: International flights: new destinations, rules, relaxations in October
Hong Kong: Hong Kong banned Vande Bharat flights for a fifteen-day period twice in August and September, as passengers tested positive for Covid-19.
Dubai: Dubai has banned Air India flights over Covid-19 concerns. It has now asked authorities to blacklist four Covid-19 test centers when they verify the test report before allowing passengers to board.
Germany: There are currently no operational flights between India and Germany, although the two countries have a bubble pact. Negotiations are ongoing as Germany does not allow Indian airlines to fly as many flights as Lufthansa. Unlike Indian airlines that operate 3-4 flights a week, Lufthansa operates 20 flights a week. Despite this disparity, we offered to authorize 7 flights a week for Lufthansa, which was not accepted by them. Negotiations continue, ”the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) previously said.
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