Rising tensions and uncertainty in Iran have led airlines to increase safety measures, with passenger safety taking priority. Against this backdrop, IndiGo has decided to extend the suspension of several international flight services.
The airline had earlier cancelled all flights to Tbilisi, Almaty, Tashkent and Baku until January 28. On Tuesday night, IndiGo announced that these services will now remain suspended until February 11, citing security concerns.
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Safety concerns behind IndiGo’s decision
IndiGo has also communicated the reason behind this decision. The airline stated that the suspension has been extended after reviewing the prevailing situation and keeping passenger safety as the top priority. IndiGo has confirmed that it is continuously monitoring developments in Iran and that further decisions will be taken depending on the situation.
Iran has remained restless since last month. In view of the situation, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had earlier issued a warning. The agency stated that there is a significant risk of mistaken attacks on passenger aircraft while flying through Iran’s airspace during wartime conditions. IndiGo’s decision follows this advisory.
Airspace restrictions and limited alternatives
Not only IndiGo, Air India has also taken precautionary steps. Air India has decided to avoid airspace adjacent to Iran for flights operating to Europe and America. The airline no longer uses Iranian airspace for European routes and is instead flying over Iraq while maintaining a safe distance.
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However, there is no alternative route available for operating flights to Tbilisi, Almaty, Tashkent and Baku, which has led to the complete suspension of services on these routes.
