Air India on Friday informed that international flights to the US, UK and Canada are being diverted due to the current situation in Iran. This decision has been taken in view of the increasing tension between Iran and Israel and the uncertainties of regional airspace.
An airline spokesperson said, “Due to the prevailing situation in Iran and due to the closure of its airspace, Air India flights are being diverted or diverted, giving priority to the safety of our passengers.”
The affected flights include several routes including Mumbai-London Heathrow (AI129), Mumbai-New York (AI119), Delhi-Washington (AI103) and Delhi-Toronto (AI189). These flights are being diverted back to their origins. Other flights such as New York-Delhi (AI102), New York-Mumbai (AI116) and Vancouver-Delhi (AI188) have been diverted to alternate routes such as Sharjah, Jeddah, Vienna or Frankfurt.
Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unexpected disruption. The airline is trying to arrange accommodation for passengers and is offering full refunds and free rescheduling for cancelled flights.
The Indira Gandhi International Airport has also issued an advisory for passengers travelling to Iran and Iraq, advising them to check the latest schedule and updates from their respective airline. Also, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has urged Indian citizens living in Israel to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement and follow local safety instructions.