India's DGCA Issues Airspace Advisory Amid US-Israel-Iran Tensions

Airspace Restrictions in West Asia

New Delhi, March 20: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has instructed airlines to steer clear of certain airspaces in West Asia due to the escalating conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. This directive aims to enhance safety measures through comprehensive risk assessments.

Airlines are advised not to operate in the airspace over Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Flights over Oman and Saudi Arabia may still be allowed under specific conditions, as per the DGCA's notification.

Recent military actions by the US and Israel targeting Iran have created a precarious situation for civil aviation, according to the regulator. The DGCA noted that Iran's potential retaliatory actions further increase the risks associated with flight operations.

Additionally, airlines are cautioned against flying below FL320 (32,000 feet) in certain areas of Saudi Arabia and Oman airspace.

The DGCA stressed the importance of conducting detailed safety risk evaluations and developing strong contingency plans to handle possible disruptions, including rerouting and diversions.

This advisory is effective immediately and will remain in place until March 28, unless circumstances change.

Furthermore, the DGCA has instructed airlines to avoid all operations within the specified airspaces at any altitude.

"Flights to airports in the affected region, where international airlines are still operating, must be supported by thorough contingency plans to manage all potential scenarios," the DGCA stated.

Airlines are also required to keep their flight crews informed with the latest NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen), which provide up-to-date information on airspace restrictions and operational conditions.

On Thursday, several airlines issued travel advisories for passengers traveling to and from Delhi and other cities, cautioning them about possible disruptions due to adverse weather.

IndiGo mentioned that flights in and out of Delhi and Bengaluru might experience "slight impacts" due to anticipated thundershowers, while Air India warned of ongoing rain and strong winds affecting the national capital and parts of northern India.