Iraq Shuts Down Airspace and Halts Flights; Air India, Lufthansa, and Etihad Experience Interruptions

Iraq has shut down its airspace following Israel’s attacks on Iran and the ongoing conflict in the region, as reported by state media on Friday (June 13). In response to these developments, Delhi Airport has issued a travel advisory for travelers. Multiple airlines, including Air India, Lufthansa, and Etihad Airways, have indicated disruptions to their flight schedules.

Iraq has suspended all flights at its airports, according to AFP.

Flight schedules have been impacted due to changing airspace conditions across West Asian countries stemming from Israel’s assaults on Iran, stated Delhi Airport in a passenger advisory on June 13.
“Delhi Airport operations are functioning normally. However, due to the evolving airspace conditions over Iran, Iraq, and the surrounding region, some flight schedules have been affected,” the statement said.

Passengers are encouraged to reach out to their respective airlines for the most recent updates regarding their flights, it added.

Read more: Israel-Iran LIVE Updates: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami killed in Israeli strike

“We strongly advise all passengers to rely on official sources for precise and current information,” Delhi Airport remarked.

Israel initiated airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and military assets, termed Operation Rising Lion. This significant escalation in tensions between the two nations could trigger a new conflict in West Asia.

Air India flights diverted

Air India has reported flight disruptions, indicating that several flights have been rerouted due to the ongoing situation in the West Asian region.

“In light of the emergent situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and prioritizing passenger safety, Air India flights are either being diverted or returning to their departure points,” it stated in a release on X (formerly Twitter).

Air India flights disrupted due to Israel-Iran conflict:

The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unexpected disruption and is making every effort to minimize it, including offering accommodation to affected travelers.

“Refunds for cancellations or complimentary rescheduling options are available for guests who wish to opt for them. We are also making alternative arrangements to ensure passengers reach their destinations,” Air India added.

Travelers can check their flight status on the Air India portal here.

Lufthansa cancels Tehran flights

Lufthansa has also suspended its flight operations to and from Tehran until further notice due to the current circumstances, according to a statement.

“Iranian, Iraqi, and Israeli airspace will also not be utilized for overflights for the time being,” Lufthansa noted.

Etihad Airways rerouting many flights

Etihad Airways from Abu Dhabi indicated that it is experiencing disruptions to various services across the region due to airspace closures and the continuing situation, mentioning that it is rerouting several flights in response to restricted airspace in parts of the Middle East.

“Guests transiting through Abu Dhabi to connect to canceled flights will not be allowed to travel from their points of origin,” it added.