Air India Cancels US Flights as Iran Closes Airspace Amid Rising Tensions
The airline has suspended multiple routes and warned of delays on European services as safety concerns prompt airspace restrictions.
Air India has cancelled at least three flights to the United States on Thursday following Iran’s decision to close its airspace. The move has also caused delays on several European routes, according to airline sources.
The cancelled flights include two departures from New Delhi one to New York and another to Newark as well as one flight from Mumbai to New York, a source confirmed to PTI.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Air India explained that the closure of Iranian airspace has forced the airline to reroute affected flights to ensure passenger safety. However, the alternative routes are causing significant delays.
“Due to the emerging situation in Iran and the subsequent closure of its airspace, flights that normally pass through the region are now using alternative routes, which may lead to delays,” the airline said. “Some flights where rerouting is currently not possible are being cancelled.”
Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by what it described as an “unforeseen disruption.”
Why the cancellations?
Air India typically uses Iranian airspace for flights heading to the US and Europe. With that route now unavailable, the airline must fly over Iraqi airspace instead. This alternative path significantly increases flight time and fuel consumption.
According to sources, the extended distance means some aircraft will not carry enough fuel to complete certain US routes safely, leaving cancellation as the only option.
The situation is further complicated by Pakistan’s ongoing airspace restrictions, which have already forced Air India to take longer routes for many westbound flights.
Rising tensions
The airspace closure comes amid growing tensions between Iran and the United States. Concerns are mounting that the situation could escalate into a broader conflict between the two nations, prompting precautionary measures across the region.
Air India has advised passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and apologized for the disruption.
