New Delhi, 28 February (H.S.): India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), issued a critical directive on Saturday, advising Indian airlines to avoid the airspace of 11 West Asian countries until March 2 due to the intensifying Iran-Israel conflict.

The immediate safety advisory prohibits overflights through the airspace of Iran, Israel, Lebanon, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Qatar. This precautionary measure addresses heightened military risks in the region following US-Israel strikes and Iran's retaliatory missile barrages.

Indian carriers have suspended multiple Middle East-bound flights, rerouted others, and canceled select services. Longer detour routes will extend flight durations and increase fuel costs, potentially passing expenses to passengers. Airlines must offer full refunds or rescheduling options to affected travelers.

The DGCA mandated continuous monitoring of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for real-time updates. Passengers are urged to verify flight status on airline websites before departing for airports. Crew and passenger safety remains paramount amid closed direct routes and regional volatility.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar