Aviation Minister Reviews Preparedness Over Middle East Conflict
India’s Minister of Civil Aviation K Ram Mohan Naidu held a high-level review of aviation preparedness as the situation in the Middle East escalates following reported joint military strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel. The review focused on potential impacts on international air travel and contingency planning amid airspace restrictions and disruptions.
Aviation Minister Reviews Preparedness Amid Middle East Conflict
The Civil Aviation Minister convened a comprehensive meeting with senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the Airports Authority of India and major airline and airport operators to assess readiness. The review centred on ensuring passenger safety, operational continuity and real-time coordination in light of airspace restrictions, Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) and potential rerouting needs due to the evolving conflict in West Asia. Airports across India, including major international gateways, have been placed on operational alert to manage flight diversions, unscheduled landings and facilitate passengers.
Airlines Advised To Monitor Airspace And Respond
Indian carriers have been advised to continuously monitor airspace advisories and NOTAMs issued by relevant authorities and to ensure timely rerouting or diversions where required, following global safety protocols. The Ministry directed enhanced coordination between airlines and airport operators for ground handling, parking bays, crew logistics, immigration support and passenger amenities to handle any disruptions arising from the situation.
Impact On Flight Operations And Passenger Safety
The review comes amid reports of flight cancellations, diversions and airspace closures affecting international routes, particularly involving Middle East destinations. Air India has temporarily suspended flights to some Middle Eastern locations, while carriers including IndiGo are closely tracking developments for safe operations. Passengers are advised to stay in regular contact with airlines for updated flight information and plan travel accordingly as the geopolitical tensions continue to influence global air travel.
