Ahmedabad Crash To Middle-East Crisis; Here's How India's Airlines Are Positioned
Indian aviation faces crisis as Air India crash, Gulf tensions, and airspace closures disrupt flights and raise insurance costs.
India’s aviation sector is under mounting pressure as a series of crises, ranging from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East to the aftermath of a major domestic air crash, trigger widespread disruptions, legal scrutiny, and potential financial consequences for carriers.
Flight Suspensions Amid Middle East Turmoil
Several Indian airlines have suspended operations to the Middle East in response to escalating tensions in the region. Air India, already facing operational disruptions, has temporarily halted flights not only to the Middle East but also to Europe and five key destinations in the United States and Canada. IndiGo and other domestic carriers are also navigating rapid operational shifts as airspace availability and safety protocols evolve.
Legal Action Over Ahmedabad Crash
Compounding the sector’s challenges, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking the suspension of Air India’s Boeing fleet. The move comes after a tragic crash involving an Air India Boeing aircraft on the Ahmedabad–London route, which claimed the lives of 241 passengers and crew members, along with 29 people on the ground. The incident has become one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India’s history.
Also Read: Strait Of Hormuz Crisis: India Banks On Russian And Saudi Oil To Avert Shortage
Health Concerns on International Route
Separately, Air India has confirmed that seven individuals, five passengers and two crew members onboard a London–Mumbai flight reported experiencing dizziness and nausea during various stages of the journey. The airline issued a statement acknowledging the health-related complaints.
Uncertainty Over Black Box Analysis
Questions remain over the next steps in the Ahmedabad crash investigation. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has not yet confirmed whether the black boxes recovered from the wreckage will be sent overseas for further analysis, leaving a key element of the probe pending.
Airspace Closures Extend
Adding to operational constraints, Pakistan on Monday extended its airspace closure for Indian aircraft and Indian-operated flights until the early hours of July 24, according to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by Pakistani aviation authorities. In response, India has also extended the closure of its airspace to Pakistani airlines and aircraft.
Insurance Costs Expected To Rise
In the wake of the Ahmedabad crash, Indian insurance providers anticipate a surge of up to 30% in airline insurance premiums. The expected hike reflects the severity of the incident, which has become the deadliest aviation tragedy in India in over a decade.
As India’s aviation industry navigates this turbulent period, airlines are contending simultaneously with flight cancellations, legal challenges, airspace restrictions, and mounting financial pressures.
Top Headlines
