New Delhi: Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo have issued travel advisories and rerouted several flights following the closure of Iranian airspace, as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
On Saturday, Air India announced that in light of the emerging situation in Iran, it has diverted multiple international flights via longer alternative routes. The airline stated that these precautionary measures have been taken to ensure passenger and crew safety.
“Due to the emerging situation in Iran and parts of the Middle East, the subsequent closure of airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, some of our flights are operating on alternative extended routes. We are doing our best to minimize any inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen airspace closure. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority.” Air India said in a post on X.
The restrictions have affected major flight paths between India and Europe, North America, which typically transit through Iranian airspace.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, also warned of possible delays and route adjustments. In its advisory posted on X, the airline said, “Airspace over Iran and surrounding areas continues to be unavailable. Certain flight paths may need adjustments, leading to extended travel durations or delays.”
IndiGo has advised passengers to check real-time flight updates through its website or mobile app before leaving for the airport. The airline said customer support teams were actively assisting those affected by the reroutes and delays.
The closure of airspace comes in the wake of renewed hostilities between Iran and Israel, prompting global aviation regulators to issue NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), warning airlines to avoid the region.
As a result, several India-bound and outbound flights to Europe, the Gulf, and beyond are now experiencing delays ranging from 30 minutes to several hours.
Both airlines emphasized that while passenger safety remains paramount, operational challenges posed by the volatile regional situation could persist for days or even weeks, depending on diplomatic developments.
Travelers flying westwards or through the Middle East are advised to plan ahead, allow for longer travel times, and stay in contact with airline helplines for the latest updates.