Air India diverts 16 flights amid Israel-Iran tensions.

In light of the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, Air India has taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew. As part of these steps, several of the airline’s long-haul flights have either been diverted to alternate routes or, in certain cases, have returned to their airports of origin. The airline emphasized that these changes were made in accordance with international safety protocols and in consultation with global aviation authorities. The affected flights include routes that would normally pass through or near the Middle East airspace currently impacted by the conflict. Air India has assured passengers that it is actively monitoring the situation and is in constant communication with relevant agencies to assess risks and adjust flight plans as necessary. Passengers are being informed about changes to flight schedules, and the airline has set up dedicated help desks and support teams to assist those impacted by these diversions or delays. Air India reiterated that the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew remain its highest priority during this time of regional instability and uncertainty.

Mumbai: In response to the rapidly escalating tensions in the Middle East, Air India on Friday diverted 16 of its long- and ultra-long-haul international flights. The decision came hours after Israel launched a direct attack on Iran’s capital, Tehran, which led to the closure of Iranian airspace and increased regional instability. The national carrier, now owned by the Tata Group, issued a travel advisory explaining the precautionary measures being taken to prioritize passenger safety and operational continuity.

Israel Launches Strike on Tehran

Early Friday morning, Israel carried out targeted military strikes on Tehran, reportedly aimed at Iran’s nuclear development facilities, ballistic missile production sites, and key military leadership. The attack marks a significant escalation in hostilities between the two nations, prompting global concerns over the potential spread of conflict in the already volatile region. In the wake of the attack, Iran closed large parts of its airspace, disrupting international flight routes that typically traverse Iranian skies.

Air India Responds With Diversions and Return Flights

The flights are either being diverted or are returning to their origin.” The airline emphasized that these actions are in compliance with international aviation safety protocols and were taken in coordination with relevant authorities.

Among the major diversions reported:

• Flight AI130 operating from London Heathrow to Mumbai has been diverted to Vienna.
• Flight AI102 from New York to Delhi has been diverted to Sharjah.
• Flight AI116 operating from New York to Mumbai has been rerouted to Jeddah.
• Flight AI2018 flying from London Heathrow to Delhi has been diverted to Mumbai.
• Flight AI129 from Mumbai to London Heathrow and Flight AI119 from Mumbai to New York are both returning to their departure airport in Mumbai.
• Flight AI103, which had taken off from Delhi en route to Washington, is now returning to Delhi.

While such disruptions are not unprecedented in geopolitically sensitive regions, the sheer scale of the current conflict has led to widespread rerouting across the aviation industry.

Efforts Underway to Minimize Passenger Inconvenience

Air India has assured passengers that comprehensive arrangements are being made to transport travelers to their final destinations with minimal disruption. The airline has activated emergency protocols, support teams, and dedicated help desks at affected airports to assist stranded or delayed passengers.

“We are actively monitoring the situation and working in close coordination with global aviation bodies to assess further risks and make informed decisions about flight routes.”

Passengers booked on upcoming long-haul flights have been advised to check the status of their flights before leaving for the airport and to stay in contact with customer support for real-time updates.

Looking Ahead

As the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to unfold, further disruptions to international air travel may occur. Meanwhile, airlines operating in the affected corridors are expected to update flight plans, reroute aircraft, or even suspend certain operations depending on how events evolve in the coming days.

Air India is expected to issue regular updates and has encouraged travelers to monitor its website and official social media handles for the latest advisories.