New Delhi: Escalating tensions in Iran have sent shockwaves through global aviation, with the country temporarily closing its airspace and triggering widespread disruption to international flight operations. Indian carriers Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have confirmed that several international services were affected, prompting advisories to passengers.
The airspace closure comes amid ongoing anti-government protests in Iran and reports of possible US intervention, raising security concerns across the region. As a precaution, airlines were forced to divert flights to alternative routes, leading to delays and the risk of cancellations.
Air India, in a post on X, cautioned passengers that safety-driven route diversions could impact flight schedules. “Due to the closure of Iranian airspace and in the interest of passenger safety, Air India flights flying over the region are operating on alternate routes, which may result in delays. Some flights may be cancelled where rerouting is not feasible,” the airline said.
Reports of the shutdown emerged early Thursday, with Iran initially announcing a two-hour airspace closure and instructing all flights to avoid entering or exiting the country without official clearance. The restriction was later extended, adding to the uncertainty faced by airlines and travellers.
According to Reuters, Iran reopened its airspace after nearly five hours, offering temporary relief. However, airlines warned that delays and operational disruptions may persist as flight schedules gradually return to normal.
