Iran Airspace Closure Disrupts India Flights: Airlines Issue Travel Advisories

In this regard, Air India on Thursday issued a travel advisory informing passengers of potential delays in international flights overflying the region and cancellations, when rerouting is not possible.

The advisory read, "Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, Air India flights overflying the region are now using an alternative routing, which may lead to delays. Some Air India flights where currently rerouting is not possible are being cancelled."

The airlines further requested passengers to stay updated with flight status before heading to the airport. The airlines highlighted the safety of passengers and crew, apologising for the inconvenience.

"We request passengers to check the status of their flights on our website https://t.co/zsIzqUy58u before heading to the airport. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen disruption. Safety of our passengers and crew remain top priority," said the advisory.

Meanwhile, IndiGo airlines also informed of impact on international flights owing to the Iran airspace closure. The airlines assured affected passengers "support and best possible alternatives."

In a travel advisory, IndiGo wrote, "Due to the sudden airspace closure by Iran, some of our international flights are impacted. Our teams are working diligently to assess the situation and support affected customers by offering the best possible alternatives."

The airlines further requested passengers to "explore flexible rebooking options or claim a refund" from the website, in case of flight delays or cancellations.

"This development is beyond our control, and we regret the disruption it may have caused to your travel plans. If your flight is impacted, we encourage you to visit our website to explore flexible rebooking options or to claim a refund, as per your preference," the advisory noted.

"We remain committed to keeping you informed and supporting you through this evolving situation. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding." it added.

Additionally, SpiceJet, in its travel advisory, requested passengers to check their flight status at the airline's website or reservation helpline numbers, as some of their flights might have been impacted.

"Due to airspace closure in Iran, some of our flights may be affected. Passengers are advised to check their flight status at https://t.co/2wynECZugy or contact our 24*7 Reservation Helpline numbers at +91 (0)124 4983410 or +91 (0)124 7101600 for assistance," the advisory stated.

Earlier on January 5th, India issued a travel advisory for its nationals in Iran amid ongoing protests, urging caution and restraint in travel as the situation in the country continues to remain volatile.

In an advisory issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Indian nationals were cautioned against non-essential travel. "In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice," the MEA stated.

The advisory also outlined safety precautions for those already in Iran. It said, "Indian citizens and PIOs currently in Iran should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and closely monitor news as well as the website and social media handles of the Embassy of India in Tehran."

In addition, the MEA advised Indian nationals residing in Iran to ensure they are registered with the Indian mission. "Indian nationals living in Iran on resident visas are advised to register with the Indian Embassy, if not already done so," the statement said.

The advisories comes as sporadic protests have erupted in Iran's capital, Tehran, and several other cities, with local media reporting intensifying clashes in parts of the country, particularly in the west.

The demonstrations, which began in late December, initially saw shopkeepers staging strikes over economic grievances before expanding in scale and scope. Protesters later raised political demands, Al Jazeera reported.

What began as demonstrations over record inflation and the steep fall in Iran's currency has now escalated into widespread unrest, with reports of agitation at more than 280 locations.

- ANI