New Delhi: As the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies, America’s involvement has further increased tensions in the Gulf region. In response, Tata Group’s airline Air India has announced changes to its international flight routes.
In a statement issued on Sunday (June 22), Air India said it will no longer fly over the airspace of Iran, Iraq, and Israel. The airline is also preparing to avoid some parts of the Persian Gulf to ensure passenger safety. This change will mainly affect flights going to Europe, North America, and Gulf countries like the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait.
According to the airline, using alternative routes could lead to longer flight times on many of these sectors. The airline said, “Amid rising tensions in the Gulf region, Air India Group confirms that our flights are not flying over the airspace of Iran, Iraq, and Israel. Soon, we will also avoid certain parts of the Persian Gulf and instead take alternate paths.”
This decision is based on continuous updates and advice from the airline’s external security experts, who are closely monitoring the situation. Air India says safety is its top priority, and it is ready to take more steps if needed.
Meanwhile, sources have said that Air India Express, the low-cost arm of the airline, has cancelled some flights that connect Indian cities with those in West Asia. These cancellations are reportedly due to low passenger loads, growing security concerns, and airspace congestion.
