Indian carriers told to skip Iranian airspace by DGCA

In a statement issued through its Twitter handle, Directorate General of Civil Aviation stated, “All India operators in consultation with DGCA have decided to avoid the affected part of Iranian air space to ensure safe travel for the passengers. They will re-route flights suitably.” As the majority of Pakistani airspace has remained closed for Indian airlines since the Balakot strike on February 26, the decision to avoid affected Iranian airspace on Saturday is going to further disturb the routes of their international flights towards middle-eastern and European countries, and the US. They will be rerouted and take more time to arrive or depart. However, Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani said, “There will no substantial effect on Air India flights. Details are being worked out for rerouting on incoming flights.” While DGCA advisory does not bar Indian airlines from transiting Iran over-land, the latter are seeing if that also can be avoided. Airlines have indicated to the regulator fares of affected flights could see a rise by Rs 500. With rising oil prices due to the tension and higher fuel burn due to extra distance, operation costs are going to hurt airlines flying to Europe. The Etihad Airways has also suspended operations through the Iranian airspace over the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman