New Delhi | 15 January 2026 

 Amid escalating political unrest and security concerns in Iran, the Iranian government has temporarily closed its airspace to commercial flights. The decision has forced several international airlines, including Air India, to alter flight routes in the interest of passenger safety. The move comes as protests intensify across Iran and tensions with the United States and Israel remain high.

Air India, in an official statement, confirmed that it has rerouted multiple flights to avoid Iranian airspace. The airline said it is using alternative paths wherever operationally feasible. However, flights that could not be safely rerouted have been cancelled. Emphasising passenger safety as its top priority, Air India has advised travelers to check their flight status on the airline’s official website before heading to the airport to avoid inconvenience.

According to aviation notices issued to pilots, Iran initially shut its airspace for a brief duration but later extended the closure without providing a detailed explanation. The latest advisory stated that Iranian airspace would remain closed for commercial aircraft until at least 7:30 am local time. The closure is widely linked to internal unrest and Tehran’s strong response to nationwide protests, though the Iranian government has not officially clarified the reason.

Meanwhile, the geopolitical situation remains tense. Iranian authorities have warned of strict action against detainees involved in protests and issued strong statements against any foreign interference. The developments have raised concerns across the global aviation sector, prompting airlines to closely monitor the situation. Air India stated it will continue to assess the evolving conditions and update passengers accordingly to ensure safe and smooth operations.

, Iran Airspace Closure Triggers Flight Disruptions, Air India Alters Routes and Advises Passengers

 Rising unrest and geopolitical tension in Iran have led the country to temporarily shut its airspace for commercial aircraft, impacting international flight operations. Following the decision, Air India has revised several flight routes to ensure passenger safety, while some services have been cancelled due to operational constraints.

In a statement, Air India said it is avoiding Iranian airspace and operating flights through alternative routes wherever possible. The airline clarified that flights which cannot be rerouted safely have been cancelled as a precautionary measure. Passengers have been advised to check the latest flight status on the airline’s official website before arriving at the airport.

Iran extended the airspace closure on Thursday morning without issuing a detailed explanation. Aviation notices to pilots indicated that the shutdown, initially brief, has been prolonged amid nationwide protests and mounting tensions with the United States and Israel. The move has created uncertainty for airlines operating in the region.

The situation remains fluid as Iran issued strong warnings against external interference in its internal matters. With security concerns still high, airlines are closely monitoring developments. Air India stated that it will continue to review the situation and keep passengers informed, reaffirming that safety remains its highest priority.