Due to security reasons, DGCA has advised Indian airlines to avoid the airspace of 9 countries in the Middle East. There is a ban on flying below 32,000 feet in Saudi Arabia and Oman. International flights will be affected by this decision.
New Delhi: Amidst the war-like situation in the Middle East, India’s aviation regulator agency DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has taken a big step. DGCA has advised Indian airlines to avoid airspace of 9 countries in view of security. This decision has been taken in view of the increased threat to the safety of civilian aircraft. According to the new advisory, airlines have been asked not to operate flights from the airspace of Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Additionally, airlines that fly to the airports of these countries or use their airspace have also been instructed to make complete preparations and have backup plans.
Although use of airspace of Saudi Arabia and Oman is allowed, DGCA has set a condition for this also. Aircraft are strictly prohibited from flying below 32,000 feet (FL 320) while flying over these countries. This instruction has been given so that civilian aircraft are not mistakenly targeted in areas of military operations. This new rule of DGCA will have a big impact on international flights going from India. Flights going to Gulf countries, Europe and North America will now have to travel through other longer and safer routes. Due to this, there is every possibility that the travel time will increase and the prices of air tickets will increase. At present this instruction has been issued till March 28. DGCA has said that further decision will be taken after reviewing the situation.