Middle East Tensions Prompt Air India And Vistara To Alter Flight Paths
In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, Air India and Vistara have announced their decision to adopt alternative flight paths for certain flights to and from India.
Following India's advisory on Friday urging citizens to refrain from travelling to Israel and Iran, citing concerns of potential retaliatory attacks, airlines have taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
While specifics regarding the alternative flight paths were not disclosed, sources familiar with the matter revealed that carriers are avoiding Iranian airspace when flying to destinations in the West.
"We are closely monitoring the developing situation in the Middle East. Presently, our aircraft will operate on alternative flight paths to and from India, according to top priority to the safety of our passengers and crew," stated an Air India spokesperson.
Air India, being the sole Indian carrier operating flights to Israel, operates four weekly flights connecting Delhi and Tel Aviv.
Similarly, Vistara issued a statement acknowledging the impact of the situation in the Middle East on their operations. "Due to the current situation affecting parts of the Middle East, we are making changes to flight paths of some of our flights," the statement read.
It further explained that contingency routes, established to ensure operational continuity during such eventualities, are being utilised. These changes may lead to longer flight times on certain routes and associated delays.
Both airlines assured passengers that they are closely monitoring the situation and will make further adjustments if necessary, prioritising safety and security above all else.
