Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet Flights Disrupted After Iran Shuts Airspace Amid US Tensions

Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet flights faced disruption on Thursday after Iran abruptly shut its airspace, triggering delays and cancellations on several international routes amid rising domestic unrest and escalating tensions with the United States.

The closure has forced airlines to alter flight paths to avoid Iranian airspace, affecting schedules and travel plans for passengers flying across the region.

Airlines issue advisories after Iran airspace closure

Air India informed passengers that flights overflying Iran are being rerouted as a precautionary measure, which could lead to longer travel times. In some cases, services have been cancelled where alternative routing is not feasible.

"Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, Air India flights overflying the region are now using an alternative routing, which may lead to delays. Some Air India flights where currently rerouting is not possible are being cancelled," the airline said in a post on X.

Air India urged travellers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport and reiterated that passenger safety remains its highest priority. "Safety of our passengers and crew remain top priority," the airline added.

IndiGo, SpiceJet report international flight disruptions

IndiGo also confirmed that some of its international services were affected following what it described as a sudden closure of Iranian airspace. The airline said its teams are working to manage the impact on customers.

"Our teams are working diligently to assess the situation and support affected customers by offering the best possible alternatives," IndiGo said.

The carrier expressed regret over the inconvenience caused and highlighted flexible options for impacted passengers. "This development is beyond our control, and we regret the disruption it may have caused to your travel plans. If your flight is impacted, we encourage you to visit our website to explore flexible rebooking options or to claim a refund, as per your preference," it added.

SpiceJet issued a similar travel advisory, confirming that its operations were also impacted due to the airspace shutdown over Iran.

Iran shuts airspace amid protests and US tensions

Iran ordered the closure of its airspace to commercial aircraft on Thursday without offering an official explanation. The decision comes at a time when nationwide protests are continuing against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, alongside heightened tensions with the United States over Tehran's crackdown on dissent.

According to a notice issued to pilots, the closure was expected to remain in effect until 7:30 am local time, the Associated Press reported.

Iran has previously taken similar steps during periods of conflict, including during the 12-day war against Israel in June and during exchanges of fire with Israel amid the Israel-Hamas war.

Security concerns prompt airlines to avoid Iranian skies

Aviation risk monitoring platform SafeAirspace said many carriers are steering clear of Iranian airspace due to security risks.

"Several airlines have already reduced or suspended services, and most carriers are avoiding Iranian airspace," SafeAirspace said. "The situation may signal further security or military activity, including the risk of missile launches or heightened air defense, increasing the risk of misidentification of civil traffic."

With regional tensions remaining high, airlines are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely while prioritising passenger and crew safety.