Middle East Airspace Closed Due to Iran-US Tensions; Airlines Cancel Flights
Iran-Israel Conflict: Tensions between Iran and Israel have significantly impacted international air travel. Following Iran's missile attack on a US military base in Qatar, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have closed their airspace. This has resulted in the cancellation or diversion of flights from several countries, including India, to the Middle East, the US, and Europe.
Missile Attack on US Base in Qatar
Iran launched six missiles at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, considered the largest US military base in the region. Following this attack, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and the UAE immediately closed their airspace. This has directly affected flights from India to the Middle East.
Flights Diverted Mid-Air
Several flights departing from various Indian cities were turned back over the Arabian Sea. Flights from Lucknow to Dammam, Mumbai to Kuwait, and Amritsar to Dubai were diverted mid-flight back to India. The situation worsened on Tuesday morning when Air India and other airlines officially announced the cancellation of flights to the Middle East, as well as parts of the US and Europe.
Air India's Official Statement
Air India released an official statement saying, "All flights to the Middle East, the US East Coast, and Europe are being cancelled with immediate effect. Several flights from the US to India have also been turned back on the runway due to safety concerns."
The airline acknowledged the inconvenience to passengers but emphasized that passenger safety is their priority. Air India also stated they are in constant contact with security advisors and international aviation agencies and will resume flight services as soon as the situation normalizes.
Indigo Issues Advisory
Indigo Airlines also issued an advisory stating that flights may experience delays or diversions due to the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. Passengers were advised to check their flight status before departing for the airport.
Multiple Airspace Closures
Qatar closed its airspace around 9 PM on Tuesday. Several aircraft already en route to Doha from various Indian cities were forced to return. The temporary closure of airspace by Kuwait, Iraq, and the UAE further exacerbated the situation.
High Volume of Flights from India to the Middle East
Major airlines like Air India, Indigo, Emirates Group, Qatar Airways, Etihad, SpiceJet, Akasa, and Air Arabia operate in the Indian aviation sector. A significant number of these airlines operate flights to the Middle East, particularly to destinations like Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. The closure of Middle Eastern airspace is significantly impacting a large number of international flights from India.
Airlines Appeal to Passengers
All major airlines, including Air India and Indigo, have appealed to passengers to remain patient and obtain flight information through official channels. All airlines assured that services will be restored as soon as the situation normalizes. Passengers are advised to check real-time updates on airline websites or through customer support.
Airlines and relevant authorities clarified that they are continuously monitoring the situation and making decisions in conjunction with international aviation safety agencies. Passenger safety remains the top priority at this time.
