India's aviation regulator has issued a fresh advisory asking airlines to avoid flying through 11 airspaces across the Middle East, citing rising risks amid the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran.
Advisory covers multiple countries
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has identified a wide high-risk zone that includes Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Jordan, the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait. The restriction applies across all flight levels.
The directive asks Indian carriers to steer clear of these airspaces and prepare contingency plans for flights operating to destinations in the region. The advisory will remain in effect until March 28, unless reviewed earlier.
"Recent military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against targets within Iranian territory have led to a high-risk environment for civil aviation. In response to these strikes, Iran has announced retaliatory measures," DGCA said, as reported by NDTV.
Specific instructions
In addition to the broader restriction, airlines have been given a specific directive regarding operations in parts of the Gulf. Aircraft have been asked not to operate below FL320 in Saudi Arabia and Oman, meaning they must maintain altitudes above 32,000 feet.
This measure is aimed at keeping flights at safer cruising levels, away from potential ground-based threats or conflict-related risks.
Focus on safety and preparedness
The DGCA has stressed the need for constant monitoring and preparedness as the situation continues to evolve. Airlines operating in permitted areas have been asked to strengthen surveillance and ensure all safety protocols are followed.
"Operations to airports in the affected region, where other international carriers are currently operating, must involve robust contingency planning to cover all eventualities, as part of the safety risk assessments by the operators," the regulator said.
It also advised airlines to keep flight crews updated with the latest Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), which provide real-time information on airspace restrictions and operational conditions.
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"Operators are advised to provide their flight crew with information regarding the latest NOTAMs, airspace restrictions affecting flight that are already airborne," it said.
Earlier advisories avoiding Syrian and Yemeni airspace remain in place, as authorities continue to assess risks to civil aviation.
