Global Flight Chaos as Airspace Closures Follow US-Israel Strikes on Iran
International air travel has been thrown into turmoil following military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, leading to widespread airspace closures and significant flight diversions across key regions. The escalating conflict has forced airlines to reroute services that typically traverse the Middle East, causing severe disruptions for passengers worldwide.
Air India Halts Operations and Reroutes Flights Amid Safety Concerns
In response to the volatile situation, Air India has suspended all flights to destinations in the Middle East. The airline confirmed that its Delhi–Tel Aviv service, AI139, was instructed to return to Mumbai after Israeli airspace was closed, with the aircraft in Saudi airspace at the time. An Air India spokesperson stated, "AI139 operating from Delhi to Tel Aviv on Feb 28 is air returning to Mumbai due to closure of air space in Israel and in the interest of safety of passengers and crew." The airline emphasized its commitment to safety and is proactively adjusting operations based on ongoing assessments.
Additionally, Air India flight AI126 from Chicago to Delhi diverted via Syria when it was about to enter Iraqi airspace, taking a longer route back to India. The airline has ceased overflying Iraq on its night flights to and from Europe, and daytime US services that previously crossed Iraqi airspace have also been halted. Air India is exploring alternative routing options, such as using the Hotan waypoint in north-western China, to avoid Pakistan airspace for flights to Europe, the UK, and North America, though clearance has not yet been granted.
IndiGo and Other Airlines Issue Travel Advisories and Suspensions
IndiGo has issued a travel advisory, stating it is closely monitoring regional updates concerning Iran and its airspace. Due to evolving airspace restrictions around Iran and the UAE, departures and arrivals across select international sectors are impacted. The airline assured customers that safety is its highest priority and is recalibrating operations to minimize disruption. Passengers are advised to check flight statuses and may explore alternate travel options or full refunds if affected.
Other airlines have also taken precautionary measures. Virgin Atlantic grounded its London Heathrow–Dubai flight, citing the need to avoid Iraqi airspace. Wizz Air suspended all flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman until March 7. Several carriers, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Air France, KLM, Aegean Airlines, and Flydubai, have grounded operations to and from Tel Aviv. An overnight British Airways flight from London Heathrow to Doha turned around mid-journey, highlighting the widespread impact.
Extended Flight Routes and Operational Challenges for Airlines
With airspace stretching from Pakistan to Iraq effectively closed to Indian carriers, longer routings are expected, potentially requiring fuelling halts in cities like Vienna or Rome for North America services. Flight tracking data shows a shift in aircraft routes, with flights from the Gulf now flying west over Saudi Arabia instead of crossing north-east Iraq to avoid closed airspace.
The disruptions underscore the broader implications of geopolitical conflicts on global aviation, with airlines prioritizing passenger and crew safety while navigating complex airspace restrictions. As the situation evolves, carriers remain vigilant, adjusting schedules and routes to ensure security amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
