Air India and IndiGo on Thursday issued travel advisories following the closure of Iranian airspace amid ongoing unrest in the country, warning of flight delays, cancellations, and rerouting for affected passengers. The move comes as Iran grapples with nationwide protests and heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.

Air India Advisories and Flight Adjustments

Air India announced that its flights overflying Iranian airspace are now taking alternative routes to ensure passenger safety. The airline cautioned that these reroutings could result in delays. For flights where rerouting is not feasible, Air India said cancellations have been implemented.

Passengers are being advised to check the status of their flights before leaving for the airport. “Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen disruption. Safety of our passengers and crew remains top priority,” the airline stated in a post on X.

The airline’s advisory follows reports that Iran has restricted airspace for all flights except those officially authorised to land or depart from Iranian airports. The prohibition was initially set for more than two hours until 7:30 pm ET but could potentially be extended, according to reports.

IndiGo Issues Similar Advisory

IndiGo Airlines also alerted passengers about the disruption. “Due to the sudden airspace closure by Iran, some of our international flights are impacted,” the airline stated, urging affected travellers to check its website for flexible rebooking options. The advisory emphasised that the situation is beyond the airline’s control and apologised for disruptions to travel plans.

Regional and Global Context

The airspace closure comes amid escalating protests in Iran, which have reportedly claimed over 2,000 lives since they began on December 28, 2025. Initially triggered by economic distress and the devaluation of the Iranian rial, the demonstrations have evolved into nationwide anti-government protests, with clashes between demonstrators and security forces intensifying.

Tensions have also been compounded by international concerns. The United States has begun withdrawing some personnel from bases in the Middle East following warnings from senior Iranian officials that Tehran could target American facilities in the event of a strike. This has further underscored the precariousness of the regional situation.

Implications for Travelers

Passengers planning to fly through or over Iran are being advised to monitor airline communications closely. For those booked on Air India or IndiGo flights, flexible rebooking and cancellation options are being made available. The airlines have highlighted that passenger safety is the foremost priority in responding to the evolving scenario.

Given the fluid situation, both carriers emphasised that travel plans may be subject to sudden changes. Air travellers are advised to remain vigilant and allow for extended travel times due to rerouting.

Summary

The closure of Iranian airspace amid protests has led Air India and IndiGo to reroute or cancel affected international flights, advising passengers to check flight status and consider flexible travel options. The measures come against the backdrop of escalating unrest and heightened geopolitical tensions, with airlines prioritising passenger safety while navigating disruptions in international air travel.