New Delhi, Jan 15: Air India on Thursday cancelled at least three flights to the United States and announced possible delays on some Europe-bound services following the closure of Iranian airspace amid emerging security concerns, sources said.
At least three flights — two from New Delhi to New York and Newark, and one from Mumbai to New York — were cancelled due to operational constraints arising from the airspace restriction, the source added.
In a post on X, Air India said that owing to the evolving situation in Iran and the subsequent closure of its airspace, flights that normally overfly the region are being diverted through alternative routes in the interest of passenger safety, which may result in delays.
“Some Air India flights where rerouting is not feasible are being cancelled,” the airline said, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers due to the unforeseen disruption.
Air India typically uses Iranian airspace for its US and Europe operations, with Iraq being the alternative route. However, flying over Iraq increases flight duration and fuel requirements, making it unviable for certain long-haul US services, the source explained.
The impact is compounded as Air India is already operating longer routes for several west-bound flights due to the continued closure of Pakistan’s airspace.
Tensions between Iran and the United States have been escalating, raising concerns that the situation could further deteriorate into a wider conflict. (Agencies)
