India’s aviation sector faced fresh turbulence after leading carriers suspended services to several West Asian destinations amid rising military tensions between Israel and Iran. The sudden escalation has disrupted regional airspace, forcing airlines to prioritise passenger safety and reconsider flight paths.
Indian Airlines Suspend Operations
IndiGo and Air India announced temporary suspension of select services to parts of West Asia as the security situation worsened. Meanwhile, Air India Express confirmed that it has halted all westbound international flights until further notice.
An Air India Express spokesperson stated that passenger and crew safety remains the airline’s highest priority. The company is monitoring developments closely and will review operations based on security assessments. Affected passengers are being contacted directly and offered assistance, including rebooking options and cancellation waivers through official platforms.
Travellers have been advised to verify their flight status before heading to airports, as sudden airspace closures may lead to last-minute changes.
Gulf Airspace Closures Deepen Crisis
The disruption extended beyond Indian carriers. Qatar Airways temporarily suspended all flights after Qatari authorities closed national airspace due to security concerns.
In Syria, the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority announced a temporary shutdown of southern air corridors for 12 hours starting Saturday afternoon, citing precautionary measures.
Explosions Reported Across the Region
Tensions intensified following reports of loud explosions in major Gulf cities. Residents in Dubai reported blasts that led to the precautionary evacuation of the Burj Khalifa. Similar explosion sounds were reported in Riyadh and parts of Abu Dhabi, particularly near areas associated with United States personnel.
Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency claimed that Iranian forces targeted several military facilities across the Gulf. Among the reported sites were Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and the US Fifth Fleet base in Manama. Independent confirmation of these claims remains limited.
Strike in Tehran Raises Fears of Wider Conflict
The crisis reportedly began after Israel carried out strikes inside Iran early Saturday. Witnesses described thick smoke rising over central Tehran following a powerful explosion. Iranian state television acknowledged the blast but did not immediately provide details on casualties or structural damage.
The incident has added to already heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington over Iran’s nuclear activities. With military movements escalating and airspace restrictions expanding, aviation authorities across the region remain on high alert.
