Amid the evolving situation in parts of the Middle East, India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has stepped up preparedness to safeguard international flight operations.
In a press release issued on February 28, PIB Delhi stated that in "view of the evolving situation in the Middle East and its potential impact on international air operations, the Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation has undertaken a comprehensive review of preparedness and response measures with all concerned stakeholders.”
High-level review meeting convened
The Ministry said a “high-level meeting through a video conference was convened” with the Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, senior officials of the Ministry, the Airports Authority of India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, airline operators and major airport operators across the country.
The review focused on “ensuring passenger safety, operational continuity and real-time coordination in light of multiple airspace restrictions and NOTAMs issued in parts of the region.”
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Advisory to Indian carriers
According to the release, “Indian carriers operating international services have been advised to continuously monitor airspace advisories, NOTAMs, and route restrictions issued by the concerned authorities.”
Airlines have been directed to ensure “timely rerouting or diversion of flights, wherever required, strictly in accordance with global safety protocols and established contingency planning procedures.”
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been advised to remain in close coordination with airlines to ensure “full compliance with safety regulations, crew duty time limitations, and operational advisories,” while activating “continuous monitoring mechanisms” to assess evolving airspace dynamics.
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Airports on operational alert
PIB said that airports across the country, particularly major international gateways, have been placed “on operational alert to manage potential flight diversions, unscheduled landings and passenger facilitation requirements.”
The Ministry is also “in close touch with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure seamless information flow” in case of any emergent requirements involving Indian carriers or nationals abroad.
Reiterating its position, the Ministry said, “The safety of passengers and crew remains paramount.” It added that “the situation is under constant watch” and further updates will follow as necessary.
