Air travel on several international routes from India was disrupted on Wednesday after Iran closed its airspace amid rising regional tensions.
Air India confirmed that some flights have been rerouted, while others have been cancelled where alternate paths are not currently feasible. The airline said passenger and crew safety remains its top priority.
The closure has forced airlines to redraw flight paths across parts of West Asia, leading to delays and uncertainty for travellers.
Also Read: Iran crisis LIVE updates: Protests rage, airspace shut, airlines issue advisories
Air India issues travel advisory amid delays and cancellations
In a travel advisory shared on social media, Air India said flights that usually overfly Iran are now taking longer, alternative routes.
“Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, Air India flights overflying the region are now using an alternative routing, which may lead to delays,” the advisory said.
The airline added, “Some Air India flights where currently rerouting is not possible are being cancelled.”
Passengers have been advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
“We request passengers to check the status of their flights on our website https://t.co/zsIzqUy58u
before heading to the airport. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen disruption. Safety of our passengers and crew remain top priority,” the advisory said.
IndiGo and SpiceJet flag impact on international services
Other Indian carriers also reported disruption due to the sudden closure of Iranian airspace.
IndiGo said some of its international flights have been affected and assured passengers of assistance.
“Due to the sudden airspace closure by Iran, some of our international flights are impacted. Our teams are working diligently to assess the situation and support affected customers by offering the best possible alternatives,” IndiGo said in its advisory.
The airline asked passengers to consider flexible rebooking or refunds if their flights are delayed or cancelled.
“This development is beyond our control, and we regret the disruption it may have caused to your travel plans,” the advisory said, adding that customers should check the airline’s website for available options.
SpiceJet also cautioned passengers that some services could be impacted.
“Due to airspace closure in Iran, some of our flights may be affected,” the airline said, advising travellers to verify flight status through its website or reservation helplines.
India had earlier cautioned citizens on travel to Iran
The flight disruptions come against the backdrop of unrest in Iran.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to the country.
“In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice,” the MEA said.
Indians already in Iran were advised to stay away from protest areas and closely monitor updates from the Indian Embassy in Tehran. The ministry also asked residents to ensure they are registered with the embassy.
The advisory followed reports of sporadic protests in Tehran and other cities, with demonstrations that began over economic grievances later expanding in scope.