Centre advises Indian airlines to closely monitor Middle-East airspace amid rising tensions

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday advised all Indian airlines operating international services to continuously monitor airspace advisories and ensure timely rerouting of flights wherever necessary.

The Ministry said airlines have been directed to undertake diversion or rerouting of flights strictly in accordance with global safety protocols and established contingency planning procedures in view of the evolving security situation in the Middle East.

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Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu conducted a comprehensive review of preparedness and response measures with key stakeholders following heightened regional tensions after reported joint military strikes by Israel and the United States on targets in Iran.

A high-level meeting was convened via video conference involving senior officials of the ministry, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), airline operators and major airport authorities across the country.

The review focused on passenger safety, operational continuity and real-time coordination amid multiple airspace restrictions and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued across parts of the region.

According to the ministry, Indian carriers have been instructed to closely track airspace advisories, NOTAMs and route restrictions issued by relevant international authorities and take prompt operational decisions as required.

Airports across the country, particularly major international gateways, have been placed on operational alert to manage possible flight diversions, unscheduled landings and passenger facilitation requirements.

The AAI and private airport operators have also been directed to maintain enhanced coordination with airlines regarding ground handling, aircraft parking, passenger amenities, crew logistics and immigration support.

The DGCA has been asked to remain in close coordination with airlines to ensure compliance with safety regulations, crew duty time limitations and operational advisories, while activating continuous monitoring mechanisms to assess evolving airspace dynamics and minimise any cascading impact on domestic flight schedules.