A sweeping airspace closure by Iran has upended flight plans for millions, with Indian airlines Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet at the forefront of the fallout. Comprehensive advisories have been dispatched, detailing reroutes, delays, and cancellation policies.
Triggered by intensifying hostilities, Iran’s move blocks a vital corridor for flights from India to Europe and North America. Air India’s long-haul operations bear the brunt, with Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s now charting longer paths via Saudi Arabia or the Caspian Sea.
IndiGo, known for efficiency, faces hurdles on its growing Middle East network, while SpiceJet’s regional jets dodge the restricted zone. ‘We’ve activated contingency plans, including ground accommodations for stranded passengers,’ IndiGo noted in its update.
Experts contextualize this within Iran’s pattern of airspace weaponization during crises. The 2019-2020 episodes cost airlines billions, and current projections suggest similar financial hits.
Regulatory bodies like DGCA are monitoring compliance with passenger rights under EU261-like norms adapted for India. Travelers should prioritize flexible tickets and monitor NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen).
In conclusion, while airlines pivot swiftly, the closure exposes aviation’s interdependence on stable geopolitics. Passengers worldwide await clearer skies, but for now, patience is key.