Indian airlines disrupt flights as Israel-Iran tensions impact airspace

Flight operations of Indian carriers have been disrupted following the closure of Israeli airspace amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.

Air India suspended flights to all destinations in the Middle East. "In view of the developing situation in parts of the Middle East, all Air India flights to all destinations in the Middle East have been suspended," the airline said in a statement posted on X.

An Air India flight operating from Delhi to Tel Aviv was diverted to Mumbai on February 28 after Israeli authorities closed their airspace. The closure came after Israel launched attacks on Iran, leading to heightened security concerns in the region.

In a statement, Air India said flight AI-139, which was en route from Delhi to Tel Aviv, had to return to India in the interest of passenger and crew safety.

“AI-139 operating from Delhi to Tel Aviv on February 28 is returning to India due to closure of airspace in Israel and in the interest of the safety of passengers and crew. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen situation and remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety,” the airline said.

A spokesperson added that the airline will continue to assess the security environment and proactively adjust operations if required. Meanwhile, Air India Express announced the suspension of all its westbound international flights in view of the developing situation in parts of the Gulf region.

The airline said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure, emphasising that the safety and security of passengers and crew remain its highest priority.

Air India Express said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation and will review its operations as necessary. The airline’s teams are providing support and assistance to affected passengers.

Impacted travellers are being notified directly through their registered contact details. Passengers have been advised to check their flight status on the airline’s official website and ensure their contact details are up to date.

For flights affected by the disruption, Air India Express is offering change and cancellation waivers. Passengers can manage their bookings through the ‘Manage Booking’ section on the airline’s website or seek assistance via its WhatsApp support service.

IndiGo also said it is closely monitoring developments concerning Iran and its airspace.

“Our teams stand prepared to implement any necessary adjustments as the situation evolves,” the airline said in a post on X. IndiGo has advised passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport.

According to flight tracking website Flightradar24, the closure of airspaces in the region is affecting multiple airlines and several international flights.

Airlines are continuing to monitor the situation as geopolitical tensions in the region remain high. Further operational changes are expected depending on security assessments.