Indian airports on alert after US-Israel strikes on Iran; Aviation Minister reviews air safety

India’s civil aviation network has been placed on heightened alert following the escalating conflict in Middle East/West Asia triggered by joint US-Israel strikes on Iran, with authorities reviewing preparedness measures across the country’s airports.

Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu chaired a comprehensive review to assess the potential fallout on international flight operations. The ministry confirmed on Saturday that the exercise examined the likely impact of ongoing hostilities and related airspace closures on Indian carriers and passengers.

Explaining the scope of the review, the ministry said the focus was on coordination and passenger safety. “A high-level meeting through a video conference was convened with Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and other senior officials of the Ministry, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), airline operators, and major airport operators across the country. The review focused on ensuring passenger safety, operational continuity and real-time coordination in light of multiple airspace restrictions and NOTAMs issued in parts of the region”, the statement said.

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Detailing the operational readiness at airports, the ministry underlined steps taken to handle contingencies. “Airports across the country, particularly major international gateways, have been placed on operational alert to manage potential flight diversions, unscheduled landings and passenger facilitation requirements,” it added.

No evacuation plan yet

On the question of evacuating Indian nationals, the government has not announced any immediate plans, as large sections of airspace in the region remain restricted. India’s two largest carriers, Air India and IndiGo, have already suspended flights to and from several Middle East destinations in response to the evolving situation.

The ministry also indicated close coordination with other departments in case the situation deteriorates. “The (civil aviation) ministry is also in close touch with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure seamless information flow and appropriate coordination in case of any emergent requirements involving Indian carriers or Indian nationals abroad,” the release said.

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Airlines told to monitor advisories

Emphasising strict adherence to global aviation norms, the government issued instructions to carriers operating overseas routes. “Indian carriers operating international services have been advised to continuously monitor airspace advisories, NOTAMs (Notice to Air Missions), and route restrictions issued by the concerned authorities. Airlines have been directed to ensure timely rerouting or diversion of flights, wherever required, strictly in accordance with global safety protocols and established contingency planning procedures,” the statement noted.

Airports have also been directed to strengthen on-ground coordination to manage disruptions. “The Airports Authority of India and private airport operators have been advised to maintain enhanced coordination with airlines for ground handling, parking bays, passenger amenities, crew logistics and immigration support, as necessary,” it further said.

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The regulator has been tasked with oversight to ensure compliance. “The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been advised to remain in close coordination with airlines to ensure full compliance with safety regulations, crew duty time limitations, and operational advisories. Further, continuous monitoring mechanisms should be activated to assess the evolving airspace dynamics and mitigate any cascading impact on domestic schedules,” the statement added.

Advisory for passengers

Travellers have been urged to remain in touch with their airlines as schedules remain fluid. “Passengers are advised to stay in regular contact with their respective airlines for updated travel information and schedule changes. Airlines have been instructed to proactively communicate with passengers regarding delays, rerouting, or diversions to minimize inconvenience,” the ministry said.

Reiterating its priority, the government stressed that aviation safety remains non-negotiable. “The safety of passengers and crew remains paramount. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the situation to ensure safe, orderly, and efficient air operations,” the statement concluded.