Has Air India Started to Resume Flights as Middle East Airspace Reopens?
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Synopsis
Air India is gradually resuming flights to the Middle East, Europe, and North America as regional airspace restrictions ease. This comes after a temporary halt due to escalating tensions following missile strikes in Qatar. Passengers are advised of potential delays as operations normalize.
Key Takeaways
- Air India is resuming flights to the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
- Most operations to and from the Middle East are set to restart from June 25.
- Passengers should expect some delays due to extended flight times.
- The airline prioritizes safety and security for all its operations.
- Temporary disruptions were beyond the airline's control due to geopolitical tensions.
New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) Air India has announced a phased return of its flight operations to the Middle East, Europe, and North America as specific airspaces in the Middle East reopen following a temporary suspension due to rising regional tensions.
The airline stated that the majority of its services to and from the Middle East are being restored starting today.
"With the gradual reopening of airspaces in select areas of the Middle East, Air India will continue to restore flights to the region, commencing today, with most operations to and from the Middle East set to resume from June 25," said an Air India spokesperson in a statement released to IANS.
The airline also noted that flights to and from Europe, which were previously canceled, are now being reinstated progressively from Tuesday, while services to and from the East Coast of the US and Canada are expected to resume at the earliest opportunity.
"Flights connecting India with the East Coast of the US and Canada are anticipated to restart as soon as possible," the spokesperson added.
While normal operations are being reinstated, Air India cautioned that some flights may still encounter delays or cancellations due to extended flight times and ongoing rerouting.
"Certain flights may experience delays or cancellations due to consequential impacts and longer re-routings/flight times, but we are dedicated to minimizing disruptions and restoring our schedule integrity," it stated.
The airline reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and schedule recovery.
"The safety and security of our passengers, staff, and aircraft remain our utmost priority," said an Air India spokesperson.
Previously, Air India had suspended all flights operating over Middle Eastern airspace after Iran carried out missile strikes on the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which hosts US military forces.
The attack resulted in the temporary closure of Qatari airspace—a crucial transit route for Indian aviation, particularly for flights connecting Europe, West Asia, and Africa.
In light of the escalation, the airline also halted services to and from the East Coast of North America and Europe.
Numerous flights heading to India from North America were forced to turn back or reroute to avoid unsafe airspaces.
Passengers were urged to remain patient during this temporary disruption, which the airline described as being beyond its control.
Point of View
I believe that the gradual resumption of Air India's flights marks a significant step toward normalcy in international travel. The airline's commitment to passenger safety and operational integrity is commendable, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions. We must support our national airline as it navigates these challenges and works to restore confidence among travelers.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What regions are included in Air India's flight resumption?
Air India is gradually resuming flights to the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
What should passengers expect regarding flight delays?
Passengers may experience delays or cancellations due to extended flight times and ongoing rerouting.
When will services to the East Coast of the US resume?
Services to the East Coast of the US and Canada are expected to resume at the earliest possible opportunity.
What caused the temporary suspension of Air India's flights?
The suspension was due to missile strikes in Qatar, which led to the closure of important airspace.
What is Air India's commitment to passenger safety?
Air India emphasizes that the safety and security of its passengers, staff, and aircraft are its top priorities.
