Air India Enhances Long-Haul Flight Routes Amid Improved Middle East Security

Air India has revamped its long-haul flight operations by introducing shorter routes through Jordan and Syria, thanks to an improved security situation in the Middle East. This strategic move allows for more efficient routing while maintaining safety protocols. The airline has also restored a stable international schedule, connecting the Gulf region with 18 Indian cities and increasing flight frequencies on major routes. Additionally, Air India Express has resumed several key services, including flights between Kozhikode and Salalah, and Mangaluru and Muscat, further enhancing connectivity in the region. Discover how these changes are shaping Air India's operations and the travel experience for passengers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 3, 2026, 17:50 IST

Air India Adjusts Flight Operations

Air India has initiated shorter flight paths for its long-haul services by utilizing airspace over Jordan and Syria, following a positive shift in the security situation in various parts of the Middle East. This update was shared in an internal memo by Manish Uppal, the airline's Head of Flight Operations, who emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance despite the improving conditions.

Previously, Air India faced significant restrictions in the Middle East, particularly with Iranian and Iraqi airspace being largely inaccessible, which forced the airline to take longer routes. However, since late May 2026, a regional de-escalation has led to a more favorable risk assessment, allowing for a gradual relaxation of these restrictions. The resumption of flights through Jordanian and Syrian airspace has enhanced routing efficiency while ensuring safety protocols remain in place.

Airspace availability is still subject to change, necessitating continuous monitoring and real-time adjustments in response to geopolitical shifts. In addition, after a limited number of ad hoc flights to the UAE since April, Air India has reinstated a more consistent international flight schedule. Currently, the airline connects the Gulf region to 18 cities across India, with increased frequencies on several key routes.

On July 2, Air India Express resumed its Kozhikode to Salalah flights, operating twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Kozhikode–Kuwait route was also restarted on July 3, initially with one weekly flight, set to expand to three weekly services on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays starting July 5. Furthermore, flights between Mangaluru and Muscat resumed on July 3, restoring connections to both of Oman's primary airports—Muscat International and Salalah.

Additionally, services from Bengaluru to Kuwait are scheduled to restart on July 4 with one weekly flight, increasing to three flights per week from July 7. Following damage to Kuwait International Airport due to an Iranian drone strike last month, Air India Express has relocated its operations to Terminal 4, having previously operated from Terminals 1 and 3.