Air India has announced an immediate suspension of its flights to Europe and parts of North America after several Middle Eastern nations—including the UAE—closed their airspace amid escalating regional tensions.
The airline said in a statement that “all operations to the Middle East, East Coast of North America, and Europe are temporarily halted until further notice.” The move has left thousands of passengers stranded or facing lengthy delays, with several India-bound flights diverted mid-air back to their points of origin.
The airspace closures come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, prompting major carriers including IndiGo and Air India Express to reroute or return flights headed to Qatar and beyond.
Industry insiders warn the impact could be substantial. Aviation consultant Mark Martin emphasised that nearly 65% of India’s international flights to Europe depend on Middle Eastern air corridors. Alternative routes through China, Mongolia, or Africa could increase flight times by several hours and drive up operational costs.
Air India expressed regret over the inconvenience, reiterating that the safety of passengers and crew remains paramount. Passengers are advised to monitor official websites and apps for real-time updates and alternative options.
As the situation evolves, experts believe this crisis could reshape Indian aviation’s long-term reliance on Middle Eastern skies.
