Why Are Several Air India Flights Being Diverted or Returning?

Synopsis
In light of the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, Air India has diverted or returned multiple international flights. Passengers are advised to stay informed and check flight statuses. The airline is making efforts to minimize disruptions and ensure safety.
Key Takeaways
- Several Air India flights are being diverted or returning due to the situation in Iran.
- Affected flights include routes to the US, UK, and Canada.
- Passengers are encouraged to verify their flight status.
- Air India is offering refunds and accommodation for disrupted flights.
- The Indian Embassy is advising citizens in Israel to remain alert.
New Delhi, June 13 (NationPress) Air India announced on Friday that due to the unfolding situation in Iran, numerous international flights bound for the US, UK, and Canada are either being redirected or returning to their departure points. This advisory follows the intensifying tensions between Iran and Israel and the resulting uncertainties regarding the airspace in the area.
In a statement, Air India said, “In light of the current situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and the safety of our passengers, the following flights are either being diverted or returning to their origin.”
The affected flights include AI130 – London Heathrow-Mumbai (Diverted to Vienna); AI102 – New York-Delhi (Diverted to Sharjah); AI116 – New York-Mumbai (Diverted to Jeddah); AI2018 – London Heathrow-Delhi (Diverted to Mumbai); AI129 – Mumbai-London Heathrow (Returning to Mumbai); AI119 – Mumbai-New York (Returning to Mumbai); AI103 – Delhi-Washington (Returning to Delhi); AI106 – Newark-Delhi (Returning to Delhi); AI188 – Vancouver-Delhi (Diverting to Jeddah); AI101 – Delhi-New York (Diverting to Frankfurt/Milan); AI126 – Chicago-Delhi (Diverting to Jeddah); AI132 – London Heathrow-Bengaluru (Diverted to Sharjah); AI2016 – London Heathrow-Delhi (Diverted to Vienna); AI104 – Washington-Delhi (Diverted to Vienna); AI190 – Toronto-Delhi (Diverted to Frankfurt); and AI189 – Delhi-Toronto (Returning to Delhi).
The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unexpected disruption and is working diligently to alleviate it, including providing accommodations.
“Passengers are being offered refunds for cancellations or complimentary rescheduling. We are also arranging alternative flights for passengers to reach their destinations. We suggest all passengers verify their flight status,” stated Air India.
Earlier, the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) issued a notice to travelers heading to Iran and Iraq, advising them to check with their respective airlines for the latest schedules and updates.
Furthermore, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a warning to Indian nationals currently in Israel, urging them to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and adhere to local safety guidelines.