How is the Middle East crisis affecting flights from Chennai?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 11 international flights from Chennai were canceled due to airspace closures.
- Closures were triggered by tensions related to Iran and US military actions.
- Travelers are advised to stay updated with their airlines.
- Significant delays are affecting flights to major cities worldwide.
- Chennai Airport is closely monitoring the situation.
Chennai, June 24 (NationPress) As tensions in the Middle East escalate, international air travel faces significant disruptions, particularly with airspace closures over Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain, impacting operations at Chennai International Airport.
The airspace shutdowns, instigated by Iran’s missile attacks on US military bases in Qatar following American airstrikes on Iranian military sites, have resulted in widespread flight cancellations. On Tuesday alone, 11 international flights were canceled at Chennai Airport, comprising six departures and five arrivals.
The canceled departures included flights to Kuwait, Muscat, Abu Dhabi (2), and Doha (2), operated by IndiGo and Qatar Airways.
Arrivals from Doha (2), Kuwait (2), and Abu Dhabi by Qatar Airways, IndiGo, and Air India Express were also grounded.
Airport officials have indicated that the number of flight disruptions could rise if regional tensions continue. Travelers planning to fly to or from the impacted countries are strongly encouraged to check with their airlines for the latest flight updates prior to arriving at the airport.
Additionally, three Qatar Airways flights coming from Thailand to Doha were compelled to divert and land at Chennai around 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday after being denied entry into Qatari airspace.
Flights to and from major international hubs, including London, Dubai, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Singapore, are experiencing significant delays due to the airspace restrictions.
The ongoing flight disruptions coincide with elevated tensions between Iran and Israel, which escalated after coordinated US airstrikes on Iranian targets. In response, Iran launched missiles targeting American military installations in the Gulf, resulting in immediate airspace closures in neighboring regions.
As tensions rise and aviation routes are critically impacted, Chennai Airport remains vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with airlines and regulatory bodies to minimize inconvenience for passengers.