Air India Cancels and Reroutes Flights After Iran's Airspace Closure

Air India has cancelled at least three US-bound flights and announced rerouting for several Europe-bound services following the sudden closure of Iranian airspace, airline and aviation sources reported on Thursday, January 15.

The cancellations include long-haul services from Delhi to New York and Newark as well as a flight from Mumbai to New York, according to the latest reports.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Air India stated that the decision to reroute and cancel flights was made in consideration of passenger safety amid the evolving situation in Iran. Flights that typically overfly Iranian territory are now being redirected via alternative routes, primarily through Iraqi airspace, which can significantly extend flight durations.

“Some Air India flights where rerouting is not currently possible are being cancelled,” the airline said, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused to travellers by this unforeseen disruption.

The disruption comes as Iran temporarily shut its airspace, a move widely linked to heightened regional tensions and security concerns. Several international carriers have also adjusted operations, issuing travel advisories and revising flight paths to avoid restricted airspace.

Air India typically uses Iranian airspace for its flights bound for the US and Europe, due to its strategic position on transcontinental routes. With that corridor closed, extended routing has left some services operationally unfeasible without additional fuel capacity, leading to cancellations.

Passengers affected by cancellations and reroutes have been urged to check flight statuses and contact the airline for updated schedules and alternative arrangements as disruptions continue to ripple through global flight operations.