The closure of Iranian airspace following Israel’s reported attack on its nuclear facilities has disrupted several international flights, forcing many to divert or return to their origin.
With Pakistani airspace already closed to Indian carriers (and vice versa), and some airlines avoiding Afghan airspace, the shutdown over Iran is expected to severely impact routes between North India and Western destinations. In some cases, flights may now require additional refuelling stops due to longer detours.
In a statement, Air India confirmed several of its long-haul flights have been affected:
“Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace and in view of the safety of our passengers, the following Air India flights are either being diverted or returning to their origin.
We regret the inconvenience caused due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimise it. Accommodation is being arranged for affected passengers. Refunds or complimentary rescheduling are also being offered, along with alternate travel arrangements wherever possible.”
Affected Flights Include:
• AI130 – London Heathrow to Mumbai – Diverted to Vienna
• AI102 – New York to Delhi – Diverted to Sharjah
• AI116 – New York to Mumbai – Diverted to Jeddah
• AI2018 – London Heathrow to Delhi – Diverted to Mumbai
• AI129 – Mumbai to London Heathrow – Returned to Mumbai
• AI119 – Mumbai to New York – Returned to Mumbai
• AI103 – Delhi to Washington – Returned to Delhi
• AI106 – Newark to Delhi – Returned to Delhi
• AI188 – Vancouver to Delhi – Diverted to Jeddah
• AI101 – Delhi to New York – Diverted to Frankfurt/Milan
• AI126 – Chicago to Delhi – Diverted to Jeddah
• AI132 – London Heathrow to Bengaluru – Diverted to Sharjah
• AI2016 – London Heathrow to Delhi – Diverted to Vienna
• AI104 – Washington to Delhi – Diverted to Vienna
• AI190 – Toronto to Delhi – Diverted to Frankfurt
• AI189 – Delhi to Toronto – Returned to Delhi
Passengers are advised to check their flight status on Air India’s website for updates: airindia.com/in/en/manage/…
