Air India Monitors West Asia Tensions; Lufthansa Cancels Flights Amid Safety Concerns

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, several flights from Europe to India have been affected. Air India is keeping a close watch on the situation, as stated by officials. On Wednesday, Lufthansa cancelled its flights from Hyderabad to Frankfurt (LH753/01) and from Mumbai to Frankfurt (LH757/01) due to the ongoing situation in West Asia.

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These cancellations followed Lufthansa's decision to halt services from Frankfurt to Hyderabad and Mumbai on Tuesday. Jeffrey James, Head of Lufthansa Group Communications - Asia Pacific, confirmed that passengers have been rerouted or accommodated. Lufthansa operates approximately 65 weekly flights between Europe and India.

Airlines Adjust Routes Amid Tensions

Air India and Vistara have already stopped using Iranian airspace. An Air India official mentioned on Wednesday that they evaluate all flights daily for potential security or safety risks, whether in the Middle East or other parts of their route network. Adjustments are made as needed to avoid risky areas while minimising impact on operations.

Air India has also suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Israel, until further notice. The airline serves 44 international destinations, including various European cities. Vistara offers direct services to Paris, Frankfurt, and London. Some European carriers have altered their routes when flying to India.

European Carriers Alter Flight Paths

LOT Polish Airlines' flight from Warsaw to Delhi avoided Iranian airspace on Wednesday. According to Flightradar24 data, this flight had previously flown through Iranian airspace on September 30. Meanwhile, Jeffrey James stated that Lufthansa's flights will continue avoiding Israeli airspace until October 31.

The tensions between Israel and Iran have heightened, prompting India to urge all parties involved to exercise restraint. India emphasised that the conflict should not escalate into a broader regional issue.