Israel-Iran Conflict: What airspace shutdowns mean for Indians flying to the Gulf

A check-in desk shows information on a cancelled flight

• Iran and neighbors closed airspace after US-Israel strikes
• Major airlines suspended flights to Middle East destinations
• India placed airports on alert, urges passengers to check updates

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Escalating hostilities involving Iran have severely disrupted air travel across West Asia, prompting widespread airspace closures, flight cancellations and heightened alert in India.

The crisis unfolded after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, triggering retaliatory missile attacks across the Gulf. Within hours, Iran and several neighbouring countries shut their skies, impacting thousands of passengers globally, including Indians travelling to and from the region.

Middle East Skies Shut

Iran swiftly closed its airspace after the strikes began.

"The airspace of the entire country is closed until further notice," announced the spokesman of Iran's Civil Aviation Organisation.

Israel, Qatar, Iraq, Kuwait, Syria and the United Arab Emirates also imposed full or partial airspace restrictions. Syria’s Civil Aviation Authority said, "The southern air corridors will be closed... from Saturday 12:00pm (0900 GMT) for 12 hours."

Jordan’s military said its air force was conducting drills to “defend the kingdom's skies.”

Major Airlines Cancel Flights

Several global carriers suspended operations to the region.

Air India announced suspension of flights to all Middle East destinations.

Lufthansa cancelled services to Tel Aviv, Beirut, Amman, Erbil and Tehran until March 7, and suspended Dubai and Abu Dhabi flights temporarily.

Air France cancelled Dubai, Riyadh and Beirut flights, while halting Tel Aviv operations until Sunday.

Turkish Airlines suspended flights to 10 Middle East nations. "Flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan have been cancelled until March 2," spokesman Yahya Ustun said.

Finnair suspended daily Dubai and Doha services until March 6. "Impact is going to be roughly 4000 customers," said Paivyt Tallqvist, the airline's head of communications.

Norwegian Air Shuttle suspended Dubai flights until March 4. "We will then assess if it's possible to resume flights," communications director Charlotte Holmbergh said.

According to flight tracking website FlightAware, more than 12,500 flights were delayed globally and over 1,400 cancelled as of 1400 GMT.

India on  Alert

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed Indian carriers operating international services to remain vigilant.

“Indian carriers operating international services have been advised to continuously monitor airspace advisories, NOTAMs, and route restrictions issued by the concerned authorities. Airlines have been directed to ensure timely rerouting or diversion of flights, wherever required, strictly in accordance with global safety protocols and established contingency planning procedures.”

Airports across India, especially major international hubs, have been placed on operational alert.

“The Airports Authority of India and private airport operators have been advised to maintain enhanced coordination with airlines for ground handling, parking bays, passenger amenities, crew logistics and immigration support, as necessary.”

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been asked to ensure strict adherence to safety regulations and crew duty time norms, while continuously monitoring evolving airspace conditions to prevent cascading disruption to domestic schedules.

The ministry is also coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs for any emergency involving Indian carriers or nationals abroad.

Passengers have been urged to stay in touch with airlines for schedule updates. “The safety of passengers and crew remains paramount. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the situation to ensure safe, orderly, and efficient air operations.”

What This Means for Indian Travellers

Authorities in India say contingency planning is in place, but passengers are advised to regularly check flight status and be prepared for delays or last-minute changes as the situation evolves.

For now, uncertainty hangs over one of the busiest air corridors for Indian travellers, as geopolitical tensions continue to reshape global aviation routes.