Air India, IndiGo Reroute Flights As Iran Closes Airspace Amid Escalating Tensions

“Airspace over Iran and surrounding areas continues to be unavailable. Certain flight paths may need adjustments, leading to extended travel durations or delays,” IndiGo posted in its statement

Air India and IndiGo are not alone in facing challenges. The broader airline industry has been affected by the closure of Iranian skies

Source : X@IndiGo6E

In response to mounting geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo have issued public advisories warning of potential delays and rerouting of international flights, particularly those passing through Iranian airspace. The developments come in the wake of Iran’s decision to temporarily close its airspace, a move that has disrupted numerous flight paths between India, Europe, and North America.

Air India took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday to announce changes in its international flight routes. “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,” the airline said.

“We are doing our best to minimise 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."

Extended Flight Times And Travel Advisory From IndiGo

IndiGo, India’s largest private carrier, echoed similar concerns, alerting passengers of longer flight durations and possible delays.

“Airspace over Iran and surrounding areas continues to be unavailable. Certain flight paths may need adjustments, leading to extended travel durations or delays,” IndiGo posted in its statement.

The airline urged all passengers to monitor flight updates via its official website or mobile app. IndiGo also assured that its customer service teams are proactively assisting travellers affected by the changing flight schedules.

Global Airlines Affected, NOTAMs Issued

Air India and IndiGo are not alone in facing challenges. The broader airline industry has been affected by the closure of Iranian skies, a vital air corridor for East-West travel. Aviation authorities in several countries have issued NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), instructing carriers to steer clear of Iranian and nearby airspace until further notice.

Delays Across Major Routes

With alternative flight corridors now in use, flying times on routes connecting India to Europe, the Gulf, and Central Asia have increased substantially. Delays ranging from 30 minutes to several hours are now common, adding to passenger concerns.

Safety First, Say Airlines

Despite the disruptions, both Indian carriers have reiterated that the safety of passengers and crew remains non-negotiable. The rerouting of flights is a precautionary measure in line with international aviation norms.