International flights from India are experiencing delays and rerouting due to the closure of Iranian airspace amid escalating unrest in the country.
Airlines have issued advisories urging passengers to stay updated on flight statuses and prepare for potential cancellations where rerouting is not feasible.
On Thursday, Air India informed travelers about the situation, stating:
"Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, Air India flights overflying the region are now using an alternative routing, which may lead to delays. Some Air India flights where currently rerouting is not possible are being cancelled."
The national carrier further requested passengers to monitor flight updates before leaving for airports. "We request passengers to check the status of their flights on our website https://t.co/zsIzqUy58u before heading to the airport. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen disruption. Safety of our passengers and crew remain top priority," the advisory added.
IndiGo also confirmed that the airspace closure had affected some of its international operations and assured passengers of support and alternative arrangements. In its advisory, the airline said: "Due to the sudden airspace closure by Iran, some of our international flights are impacted. Our teams are working diligently to assess the situation and support affected customers by offering the best possible alternatives."
The airline encouraged passengers to explore flexible rebooking or request refunds, noting: "This development is beyond our control, and we regret the disruption it may have caused to your travel plans. If your flight is impacted, we encourage you to visit our website to explore flexible rebooking options or to claim a refund, as per your preference. We remain committed to keeping you informed and supporting you through this evolving situation. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding."
Similarly, SpiceJet advised passengers to confirm the status of their flights through the airline’s website or 24/7 reservation helpline numbers:
"Due to airspace closure in Iran, some of our flights may be affected. Passengers are advised to check their flight status at https://t.co/2wynECZugy
or contact our 247 Reservation Helpline numbers at +91 (0)124 4983410 or +91 (0)124 7101600 for assistance,"* the advisory stated.
Earlier, on January 5, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to exercise caution in Iran amid ongoing protests. The MEA stated: "In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice."
For those already in Iran, the MEA outlined precautions: "Indian citizens and PIOs currently in Iran should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and closely monitor news as well as the website and social media handles of the Embassy of India in Tehran."
The ministry also advised Indian residents in Iran to ensure they are registered with the Indian mission:
"Indian nationals living in Iran on resident visas are advised to register with the Indian Embassy, if not already done so."
The travel advisories follow reports of sporadic protests across Tehran and several other Iranian cities, with clashes intensifying particularly in western regions. The demonstrations, which began in late December, initially involved strikes by shopkeepers over economic grievances before expanding to broader political demands, according to Al Jazeera.
What started as protests over rising inflation and the steep decline of Iran’s currency has now escalated into widespread unrest, with agitation reported in more than 280 locations across the country.