New Delhi: India’s aviation sector has faced major disruptions since the start of the conflict involving Iran, with Indian airlines cancelling more than 10,000 international flights due to airspace closures and operational challenges across West Asia.
According to officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, escalating tensions in the region have significantly affected international flight operations, particularly on routes connecting India with Europe and North America. Several countries across West Asia imposed airspace restrictions or closures, forcing airlines to suspend or reroute services.
Before the conflict began on February 28, Indian carriers operated around 300 to 350 flights daily to destinations across the Middle East. However, that number has now dropped sharply to around 80 to 90 flights a day as airlines adjust schedules and routes to cope with the evolving situation.
Officials said the disruptions followed military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets and the subsequent retaliation from Tehran, which escalated tensions across the region. The situation led to significant airspace restrictions in multiple countries including Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.
As a result, many flights now have to take longer routes to avoid restricted airspace, increasing travel time and operational costs for airlines. The longer routes have particularly affected flights travelling to Europe and North America.
To manage these disruptions, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation granted temporary relaxation in Flight Duty Time Limitations for pilots operating long haul flights. The measure allows extended duty periods and increased flight time to help airlines operate longer routes while maintaining schedules.
The relaxation will remain in effect until April 30 and may be reviewed depending on how the situation evolves in the coming weeks.
Officials also noted that aviation turbine fuel prices have risen globally due to the conflict. However, domestic pricing adjustments have been moderated to prevent a sharp rise in airfares. Aviation turbine fuel accounts for nearly 40 percent of an airline’s operating cost.
In response to rising costs, some airlines have introduced distance based surcharges on international tickets to offset higher fuel expenses. At the same time, authorities have allowed certain foreign airlines, including Emirates, Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways, to operate passenger aircraft for cargo services in order to maintain supply chains.
Officials said the government is continuing to work with airlines and other stakeholders to stabilise operations, ensure passenger safety and maintain uninterrupted cargo movement while the situation in West Asia remains uncertain.
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