With the current closure of Iranian airspace due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, Air India has rerouted multiple international flights and provided a travel advisory for passengers. It is recommended that travellers verify their flight status for any potential delays or cancellations, as routes connecting India, Europe, and North America are affected.
Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, Air India has released a travel alert for its passengers, drawing attention to possible route modifications and delays. The airline confirmed that some of its international flights are being rerouted on longer pathways due to the closure of Iranian airspace.
This action has been taken as a precautionary measure to safeguard the welfare of those flying to and from affected areas, specifically Europe and North America.
Essential Information for Passengers
Air India communicated the changes via the social network X (previously known as Twitter). The official announcement from the airline conveyed:
“In light of the evolving situation in Iran and several regions of the Middle East, the related airspace closures, and the safety of our passengers, a number of our flights are being rerouted on diversionary extended courses. We strive to reduce any disruption to our passengers arising from this unexpected airspace closure.”
This indicates that certain flights could take significantly longer than usual, potentially resulting in delays and cancellations.
Routes Affected for Air India as of the Previous Day
On June 13, 2025, several key Air India flights underwent rerouting and diversions due to the restriction of regional airspace. Some flights were directed towards nearby airports for unscheduled stops, while others had to turn back to their departure city.
✈️ Flights That Were Rerouted:
- AI130 (London–Mumbai) – Redirected to Vienna
- AI102 (New York–Delhi) – Redirected to Sharjah
- AI116 (New York–Mumbai) – Redirected to Jeddah
- AI2018 (London–Delhi) – Redirected to Mumbai
- AI106 (Newark–Delhi) – Redirected to Vienna
- AI188 (Vancouver–Delhi) – Redirected to Jeddah
- AI101 (Delhi–New York) – Redirected to Frankfurt or Milan
- AI126 (Chicago–Delhi) – Redirected to Jeddah
- AI132 (London–Bengaluru) – Redirected to Sharjah
- AI2016 (London–Delhi) – Redirected to Vienna
- AI104 (Washington–Delhi) – Redirected to Vienna
- AI190 (Toronto–Delhi) – Redirected to Frankfurt
🔁 Flights That Returned to Departure Point:
- AI129 (Mumbai–London) – Returned to Mumbai
- AI119 (Mumbai–New York) – Returned to Mumbai
- AI103 (Delhi–Washington) – Returned to Delhi
- AI189 (Delhi–Toronto) – Returned to Delhi
These reroutes were necessitated by sudden airspace restrictions and operational issues, which compelled the airline to conduct unplanned technical stops at Vienna, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Frankfurt.
Pre-Travel Guidance: Air India’s Announcement
Travellers with upcoming flights are strongly encouraged to:
- Verify their flight status before arriving at the airport.
- Be prepared for longer travel durations on certain routes.
- Keep updated through Air India’s official social media platforms and website.
To support passengers, Air India has provided specific helpline numbers:
- 011 69329333
- 011 69329999
These helplines can be used for the latest information on flight delays, cancellations, and changes to flight routes.
Wider Effects on International Travel
Air India is not the sole carrier making adjustments to its operations. Numerous international airlines that traverse Middle Eastern airspace are also redirecting their flights, especially those connecting India with destinations in Europe or North America.
The impact of airspace closures could influence:
- Duration of flights
- Flight schedules
- Passenger connection durations
Travellers preparing for long-distance journeys should stay alert for updates from their airlines and factor in buffer times for layovers.
Final Recommendations for Air India Passengers
If you're scheduled to fly with Air India soon:
- Reconfirm your travel itinerary.
- Sign up for instant alerts.
- Arrive well ahead of time at the airport to accommodate any last-minute changes.
Safety is the airline's utmost priority, and passengers are encouraged to remain informed and adaptable during this evolving situation.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
