The recent escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict has significantly disrupted international air travel, with Air India rerouting and delaying flights to prioritize passenger safety.
Following Israel's military strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, airspace over Iran was temporarily closed, forcing airlines to avoid not only Iran but also neighboring countries like Iraq and Jordan. This has led to longer flight routes, increased fuel consumption, and higher operational costs.
"Air India confirmed it had delayed or diverted several flights in view of passenger safety," officials said, with at least
25 flights canceled, returned to origin, or delayed in the early hours of Friday alone.
Flights originally bound for or departing from major cities such as London, New York, and Delhi have been rerouted through alternative hubs including Vienna, Sharjah, and Jeddah. This has caused significant inconvenience, with hundreds of passengers stranded at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.
The conflict’s impact extends beyond aviation. Indian authorities have issued advisories urging nationals in Iran to exercise caution amid the hostilities. The broader regional instability is also affecting global travel routes, with airlines facing potential losses; one Indian carrier warned that prolonged airspace closures over Pakistan could cost up to
$600 million due to longer detours.
Experts and community members with ties to the region express deep concern over the unfolding crisis. Anthony Knopps, an international relations instructor, noted,
"As somebody who's spent time in Israel, there is always that concern. What's going to happen to the people you know?"Meanwhile, personal stories highlight the human toll, such as Amichai Stout’s account of his relatives in Israel seeking shelter during overnight bombings.
As tensions persist, airlines and governments continue to monitor the situation closely, balancing safety with the challenges of disrupted airspace and complex geopolitical dynamics.
Sources: 
Amid escalating Israel-Iran conflict, Air India has rerouted and delayed flights to ensure passenger safety, diverting routes through Vienna, Sharjah, and Jeddah. Over 25 flights were canceled or returned to origin, with disruptions at Delhi’s airport as airspace closures and regional tensions impact international travel.
