Air India on Saturday announced the cancellation of several long-haul international flights scheduled for March 1, citing an ongoing review of the security situation in the Middle East following military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.
The decision expands earlier suspensions that had primarily affected Gulf routes, as regional tensions continue to disrupt global aviation corridors.
In a statement, the airline said the cancellations were made “in the interest of the safety and security of our guests and staff” while it evaluates evolving geopolitical developments. Affected passengers are being contacted and offered rebooking or alternative travel options.
Major International Routes Affected
The suspended services include key routes connecting Indian metros with Europe and North America:
United Kingdom
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Delhi – London Heathrow (AI161/AI162, AI111/AI112)
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Mumbai – London Heathrow (AI129/AI128)
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Amritsar – London Gatwick (AI169/AI170)
United States
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Delhi – New York JFK (AI101/AI102)
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Mumbai – New York JFK (AI119/AI116)
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Mumbai – Newark (AI191/AI144)
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Delhi – Chicago via Vienna (AI127/AI126)
Canada
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Delhi – Toronto via Vienna (AI187/AI188, AI189/AI190)
Germany
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Delhi – Frankfurt (AI2025/AI2026)
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Mumbai – Frankfurt (AI2027/AI2028)
France
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Delhi – Paris (AI143/AI142, AI147/AI148)
These cancellations impact transit passengers and international travellers connecting through Indian hubs.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The move comes amid heightened military confrontation in West Asia. Following US–Israel strikes on Iranian targets, Iran has reportedly launched retaliatory action, including missile attacks aimed at US military installations in the region.
Temporary airspace closures across parts of West Asia have forced global airlines to reassess routes that pass through or near affected zones. As a result, carriers worldwide are rerouting aircraft, suspending services, or delaying departures.
Earlier, airlines including IndiGo had also suspended select Middle East services, with several Indian airports reporting stranded passengers and last-minute cancellations.
Advisory for Passengers
Air India has advised passengers to:
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Check flight status on the airline’s official website or mobile app
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Contact customer support for rebooking or refund options
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Arrive at airports only after confirming updated departure details
Aviation analysts note that further adjustments may be announced depending on how the security situation evolves in the coming days.
