Air India, Indigo begin gradual resumption of intl flights after Mideast airspace reopens

AIR India has begun progressively resuming its international operations after airspaces in parts of the Middle East were reopened following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, potentially ending a 12-day war. Israel’s airspace had been closed due to multiple waves of Iranian missile attacks but reopened on Tuesday, allowing airlines to reassess routes.

Starting 24 June, Air India announced it would gradually reinstate most operations to and from the Middle East, with full services expected to resume from 25 June. The airline had earlier suspended all flights to the region and to the East Coast of North America and Europe due to security concerns. India-bound flights from North America were rerouted to avoid unsafe airspaces.

Air India also confirmed it is resuming flights to Europe, Canada, and the East Coast of the United States, though specific dates for North American services remain unconfirmed. A spokesperson said, “Flights to and from Europe, previously cancelled, are also being progressively reinstated… services to and from the East Coast of the US, and Canada will resume at the earliest opportunity.”

Despite the resumption, Air India cautioned passengers about potential delays or cancellations due to longer flight times and reroutings amid ongoing restrictions. “We are committed to minimising disruptions and restoring our schedule integrity,” said the spokesperson. The airline emphasised that it will continue to avoid any airspace deemed unsafe and prioritise the safety of passengers and crew.

IndiGo also confirmed it is progressively resuming flights as Middle East airports gradually reopen.

The airline shared the update via a post on X, assuring passengers that it is taking all necessary precautions to ensure safety.

“Travel Advisory: As airports across the Middle East gradually reopen, we are prudently and progressively resuming operations on these routes. We continue to monitor the situation closely and are fully considering the safest available flight paths to ensure secure and seamless travel. Please stay updated via our mobile app or website. Thank you for your continued understanding and trust,” IndiGo posted.

This statement came just hours after the airline had suspended several key routes as a proactive safety measure:

“In view of the evolving situation in the Middle East, our flight operations to and from Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Dammam, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Madinah, Fujairah, Jeddah, Muscat, Sharjah, Riyadh, Ras Al-Khaimah and Tbilisi have been suspended at least until 1000hrs today. We understand the impact this may have on your travel plans, and sincerely regret the inconvenience. Please be assured that this decision has been taken as a proactive safety measure,” IndiGo had earlier posted.