The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel is now visibly impacting international flights, potentially causing difficulties for Indian travelers undertaking overseas journeys.
New Delhi: The escalating war between Israel and Iran has extended beyond the ground and diplomatic fronts, directly affecting the air travel of ordinary citizens. Amidst this tense situation, India's leading airline, IndiGo, has issued an important advisory urging caution and vigilance for Indians traveling abroad.
Iranian Airspace Closure Impacts Flights
IndiGo clarified that the airspace over Iran and its surrounding areas has been temporarily closed following Israeli attacks. This closure is leading to route changes for some flights, potentially increasing travel times and causing delays.
IndiGo stated on its official social media handle 'X' (formerly Twitter): Due to instability in the airspace over Iran and its surrounding areas, some flights are being diverted to new routes. This may result in changes to flight schedules. Passengers are requested to check their flight status on our website or mobile app before leaving for the airport. Our teams are available at all times for assistance. IndiGo added that passenger safety is their top priority and necessary steps are being taken to ensure it.
Air India Also on Alert: 16 Flights Affected
Prior to IndiGo, Air India, India's national airline, also issued an advisory. According to the advisory, at least 16 flights have been diverted or temporarily recalled to India due to the Israel-Iran conflict. Schedules for some of these flights have been revised. A video circulating on social media from the platform FlightRadar24 clearly shows that dozens of international flights were operating over Iran until minutes before the Israeli attacks.
However, as soon as the first missile was launched, Iranian airspace emptied within minutes. The video clearly shows how every flight immediately changed its route, completely vacating the regional airspace. This offers a startling glimpse into the strain on global air traffic.
Special Advice for Indian Travelers
Indian citizens traveling to countries like West Asia, Europe, or America are advised to:
- Check their flight status on the respective airline's website, app, or customer care before traveling.
- If traveling via transit flights, ensure that your transit country is not utilizing Iranian airspace.
- Passengers are urged to exercise patience and understanding in case of flight delays or diversions.
India's Ministry of Civil Aviation is also monitoring the situation and has instructed all major airlines to adopt a safety-first policy. Ministry sources state that there is currently no need to cancel any flights entirely, but every flight passing through the risk zone is being monitored according to the situation.
