In response to the evolving situation in the Middle East and its potential impact on international air travel, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has met with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other relevant stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive review of preparedness and response measures, according to a Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) report.
“The review focused on ensuring passenger safety, operational continuity and real-time coordination in view of numerous airspace restrictions and NOTAMs issued in some parts of the region. Indian carriers operating international services have been advised to continuously monitor airspace alerts, NOTAMs and route restrictions issued by the concerned authorities. Airlines have been directed to ensure timely rerouting or diversion of flights whenever required, strictly in accordance with the protocol of the global civil aviation security planning.”
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Airports across the country, especially major international gateways, have been put on operational alert to handle potential flight diversions, unscheduled landings and passenger facilitation requirements.
The Airports Authority of India and private airport operators have been advised to maintain enhanced coordination with airlines in the areas of ground handling, parking spaces, passenger amenities, crew logistics and immigration support as required, the Civil Aviation Ministry said in a report.
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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been instructed to remain in close coordination with the airlines to ensure strict adherence to safety rules, reduction of crew duties and operational instructions. In addition, continuous monitoring systems should be in place to monitor changing airspace conditions and minimize any potential disruption to national flight schedules.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation works closely with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure timely information sharing and appropriate action for any urgent needs involving Indian airlines or nationals abroad.
Passengers are advised to stay in regular contact with their respective airlines for updated travel information and schedule changes. Airlines have been instructed to proactively communicate with passengers about delays, diversions or diversions to minimize inconvenience, the report said.
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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. The situation is under constant surveillance. Further updates will follow as needed, the ministry said.
Air India suspends all flights to the Middle East
Air India has suspended all flights to Middle Eastern destinations citing passenger and crew safety. Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended operations to and from Doha following the closure of Qatari airspace.
IndiGo, meanwhile, said it was closely monitoring developments over Iran and the surrounding airspace and was ready to adjust its operations as needed.
Several Indian airports, including Mangaluru International Airport in Karnataka and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala, also issued passenger advisories warning passengers of possible flight disruptions due to rising tensions in the Middle East.
Ahmedabad Airport issues passenger information
Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Saturday issued a passenger advisory warning that international flight operations may be affected by temporary closures and restrictions in several international airspaces.
In a post on X, the airport said: “Due to temporary closures and restrictions affecting several international airspaces, some international flights may experience delays, diversions or cancellations. Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status with the relevant airlines before traveling to the airport and plan accordingly. Thank you for your cooperation as we strive to improve your travel experience.”
The recommendation comes amid a sharp escalation in the Middle East following a joint Israeli-US military operation that reportedly targeted Iranian military and nuclear sites, known as “Operation Roaring Lion.” The strikes prompted retaliation and raised security concerns across the region. As a result, Iran, Israel and Iraq closed their airspace, causing major disruptions to international flight routes.
(With input from agencies)
