Iran-Israel Escalation Impacts Global Travel, Air India Flight Returns Midway To Delhi

Airspace in Israel and Iran is shut after coordinated United States and Israel strikes on targets across Iran, including Tehran, triggering immediate flight disruption and forcing airlines worldwide to alter routes as the Middle East faces another round of intense military confrontation and growing security uncertainty for passengers.

An Air India service from India to Tel Aviv turned back mid-route after regional airspace closures followed the US strikes on Iran conducted with Israel. Delhi Airport warned that international flights heading West could face delays or diversions as routes are reworked to avoid the locked airspace.

Middle East airspace and flights under strain after strikes

Earlier on 28 February, the United States and Israel carried out joint strikes in Tehran and several other Iranian locations. The attacks reportedly hit important government offices and military bases. One major target was linked to the office of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly moved to a safe site, while damage and casualties remain unknown.

Iran has in turn reportedly fired retaliatory missiles at Israel, prompting both countries to shut their skies. Israel has halted airport operations, while Iran has also closed its airspace. The airspace squeeze widened when Iraqi authorities closed skies and Erbil Airport stopped all air traffic, according to the Iraqi state news agency.

Global airspace and flights disruption for major airlines

Airlines across regions have reacted quickly to the escalation. Several carriers worldwide have cancelled or paused flights serving Israel and Iran as tensions rise. Lufthansa said operations to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut and Amman are suspended until 7 March. Oman Air has temporarily halted services to Baghdad, citing the changing security situation in the region.

A flydubai spokesperson said some services have been affected after Iraqi, Iranian and Israeli airspace temporarily closed on Saturday. Russia's Transport Ministry stated that Russian airlines have also stopped flights to Israel and Iran. These decisions add pressure on already stretched routes, as carriers try to maintain schedules without using blocked corridors.

IndiGo said it is tracking developments around Iran's skies and their effect on air corridors used by Indian carriers. The airline stated, "We are closely monitoring regional updates concerning Iran and its airspace. The safety and security of our customers and crew remain our highest priority. Our teams stand prepared to implement any necessary adjustments as the situation evolves," highlighting a cautious approach.

With Iran and Israel airspace closed, airports suspending operations, and airlines rerouting or cancelling flights, passengers travelling between India, the Middle East and Europe face uncertainty. Authorities and carriers are adjusting operations while waiting for clearer information on damage from the strikes and the scale of any further military response.