India’s air corridor shrinks as conflict in West Asia expands

Saurabh SinhaNEW DELHI: As the Israel-Iran war zone expands, the “available” corridor in West Asia – the main flight route between India and Europe, the UK and North America – is shrinking.Air India has slightly changed its route into Saudi Arabia from Oman, adding flights to southern Saudi Arabia starting on Friday, as Riyadh is now also being targeted. This adds another 20 to 30 minutes to a long-haul flight.An airline executive said: “While our flights to Europe, the UK and North America are currently on longer routes, if the routes are longer, we may have to cut some flights as the operating costs will be higher.” If the situation in the Gulf becomes worse, AI has conducted route studies to explore available options.The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Thursday issued an emergency “safety advisory” in view of “escalated safety risks” in the region. As the situation is extremely fluid and dynamic, operators are asked to conduct real-time assessments before operating flights in the area.The difference between the DGCA’s earlier directive on March 11 and Thursday’s directive is that the airspace hazard description now includes “weapons interception”. Airlines are now required to fly above 32,000 feet in certain airspace that Saudi Arabia and Oman currently use for overflights.Third, airlines must now implement “robust monitoring and risk assessment processes.” Finally, they must communicate the latest Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) and airspace restrictions to the crew of the airborne flight.Airline executives say the conflict is rapidly expanding into new areas. As operating costs will rise exponentially, airlines are likely to cut flights as fares will rise further, allowing only essential travel. Indian airlines are waiting for the end of the month and are worried about a sharp rise in jet fuel prices. The challenges are heightened as Indian airlines are unable to use Pakistani airspace due to the recent outbreak of hostilities.