The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a security advisory to all Indian air operators on Saturday, February 28, warning of increased risks to civil aviation in the Middle East and Gulf airspace due to rising regional tensions.
The advisory came amid a major escalation in West Asia following joint military strikes by Israel and the United States against Iranian targets. These actions led to retaliatory threats and airspace closures in Iran, Israel, and Iraq. As a result, key international air routes used by airlines traveling between India and the Gulf countries were disrupted.
What does DGCA say?
The DGCA has identified several major risks, such as retaliatory attacks hitting Iranian airspace and neighboring countries, the presence of advanced weapons such as cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, high-altitude air defense systems, and military aircraft. There is also concern about misidentification of civilian aircraft or operational errors occurring during military interventions.
“The current situation poses the following critical risks to civilian air operations: Retaliatory actions: Potential attacks against US and Israeli assets in the region affecting Iranian airspace and neighboring states; Weapons capabilities: Presence of air defense systems, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and military aircraft; miscalculation or failure of military interception procedures,” the advisory said.
Check high risk zones
The High Risk Zone includes all altitudes and flight levels within multiple Flight Information Areas (FIRs) such as Tehran (OIIX), Baghdad (ORBB), Tel Aviv (LLFI), Amman (OJAC), Beirut (OLBB), Kuwait (OKAC), Jeddah (OEJD), Emirates (OMAE), Bahrain (OBMMBB) and Doha (DF).
DGCA guidelines
In accordance with international safety standards and the EASA bulletin, the Indian DGCA has instructed Indian operators to avoid operating in the affected airspace at all flight levels and altitudes. Airlines have also been advised to closely monitor updated Aviation Information Publications (AIPs) and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued by relevant countries and national authorities.
“In accordance with international safety standards and EASA CZIB, all Indian operators are advised to:
1. Avoid Operations: Refrain from operating in the affected airspace listed above at all flight levels and altitudes;
2. Monitoring Publications: Carefully monitor all updated Aeronautical Information Publications (AIPs) and NOTAMs issued by affected countries and national authorities,” the advisory states.
The regulator went on to say that earlier recommendations regarding the airspace over Syria and Yemen were still in place.
The notice is effective immediately and will remain in effect until March 2, 2026 unless revised or replaced.
“Operators are requested to acknowledge receipt of this communication and confirm that flight planning departments have been updated accordingly. Safety remains our highest priority,” the text continued.
