Indian airlines Air India and IndiGo have issued travel advisories following Iran's sudden decision to close its airspace. This unexpected development has forced both carriers to reroute their international flights, potentially causing delays for passengers.
Air India Implements Alternative Flight Paths
Air India announced on January 15, 2026, that it is now using alternative routing for flights that normally overfly the Iranian region. The airline cited the emerging situation in Iran and subsequent airspace closure as primary reasons for this change.
Safety remains the top priority for Air India, according to their official statement. The airline emphasized that these route adjustments are necessary to ensure passenger security during this period of uncertainty.
Potential Delays for Passengers
Travelers should prepare for possible schedule disruptions. Air India acknowledged that the alternative routing may lead to delays for some flights. The airline did not specify which routes are most affected, but indicated that flights overflying the region are experiencing the greatest impact.
IndiGo Responds to Airspace Closure
IndiGo issued its own advisory on January 14, 2026, confirming that some of its international flights are impacted by Iran's airspace closure. The budget airline described this development as "beyond our control" while assuring customers that teams are working diligently to address the situation.
Our teams are assessing the situation continuously, IndiGo stated in their announcement. The airline promised to support affected customers by offering the best possible alternatives during this disruption.
Customer Support Measures
Both airlines have activated customer support protocols to assist travelers. Air India and IndiGo are:
- Monitoring the situation in real-time
- Providing updates through official channels
- Working to minimize inconvenience for passengers
- Exploring alternative routing options
Regional Aviation Impact
The closure of Iranian airspace affects numerous international carriers operating routes between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Indian airlines join other global carriers in adjusting their flight paths to avoid the region.
Aviation experts note that such airspace closures typically require airlines to take longer routes, which can increase flight times by several hours in some cases. This not only causes delays but may also affect fuel consumption and operational costs for airlines.
Travel Recommendations
Passengers booked on Air India or IndiGo flights in the coming days should:
- Check flight status regularly through official airline channels
- Allow extra time for potential delays when traveling to airports
- Contact airline customer service for specific flight information
- Consider travel insurance for unexpected disruptions
The situation remains fluid, with both airlines promising to provide updates as more information becomes available. Travelers are advised to stay informed through official airline communications rather than relying on third-party sources for the most accurate information.
