Air India has diverted 16 of its long-haul international flights to avoid Iranian airspace due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The precautionary step reflects growing global aviation concerns over the increasingly volatile situation in the Middle East.
The airline confirmed that these diversions are a proactive safety measure, ensuring passenger and crew security amidst potential aerial conflicts. Flights bound for destinations in Europe, the US, and Canada were rerouted to avoid possible threats stemming from ongoing geopolitical frictions.
A senior airline official stated that while no direct threat has been issued to Indian carriers, the decision follows advisories from global aviation bodies and India’s own risk assessments. The diverted routes will slightly increase flight durations and fuel costs but are deemed necessary for safety.
The tensions between Israel and Iran have spiked following reports of military operations and threats of further escalation. Several international airlines have already suspended or rerouted operations in the region.
Air India’s quick action is seen as part of broader global aviation protocols to maintain safety over conflict zones, drawing from past incidents where commercial aircraft became unintended casualties.
