Air India and IndiGo services faced disruptions as Iran shut its airspace due to escalating US-related tensions
On Thursday, Iran instructed commercial flights to stop using its airspace, offering no reason for the move.
Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet said on Thursday that some of their international flights have been affected after Iran closed its airspace amid widespread protests against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and escalating tensions with the United States.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Air India informed its passengers about potential delays and cancellations on flights operating in the region where rerouting is not possible.
The airline said, “Due to the prevailing situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and keeping in mind the safety of our passengers, Air India flights are now operating via alternative routes, which may result in delays.
Some Air India flights, where rerouting is not currently feasible, are being cancelled.”
Air India advised passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. It added, “The safety of our passengers and crew is paramount.”
In a post on Thursday morning, IndiGo also stated that some of its international flights had been “affected” due to the “sudden closure of Iranian airspace.”
It said, “Our teams are working diligently to assess the situation and assist affected customers by providing the best possible options.” It further added, “This development is beyond our control, and we regret any disruption this may have caused to your travel plans. If your flight is affected, we encourage you to visit our website to explore flexible rebooking options or claim a refund as per your preference.”
SpiceJet also shared a similar travel update, citing the closure of Iranian airspace as the reason for the affected flights.
Iran ordered its airspace closed to commercial flights on Thursday without explanation, amid heightened tensions with the United States over Tehran’s crackdown on nationwide protests.
According to the Associated Press news agency, a notice issued to pilots stated the closure would last until 7:30 a.m. local time.
Iran had previously closed its airspace in June during a 12-day conflict with Israel and during exchanges of fire with Israel during the Israel-Hamas war.
Safe Airspace, a website that provides information on conflict zones and air travel, said, “Several airlines have already reduced or suspended their services, and most airlines are avoiding Iranian airspace.”
“This situation may indicate further security or military activity, including the threat of missile launches or increased air defenses, which increases the risk of misidentification of civilian traffic.”
India on Wednesday advised all its citizens residing in Iran to leave the country immediately, citing the deteriorating security situation due to widespread anti-government protests and the subsequent crackdown on demonstrators.
The advisory stated, “In view of the prevailing developments in Iran, Indian nationals are once again advised not to travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice.”
