A picture is becoming increasingly viral on social media in the last 24 hours, in which it is claimed that an Air India flight (AI2030) has flown over the restricted airspace of Iran. As soon as this news spread, concern about safety increased among passengers and people. However, Air India took immediate action and termed this news as completely ‘fake’ i.e. false. The airline has clarified that their priority is always the safety of passengers and they do not fly from any restricted area.
What is the whole matter and the airline’s clarification?
Air India has issued an official statement in response to the viral claim. While sharing the data of Flightradar24, the airline said that the flight in question was actually diverted via Saudi Arabia. Air India has clarified that they are continuously monitoring the situation in view of the ongoing tension in the Middle East and are following the rules of global aviation. The company has clearly stated that none of their aircraft went into restricted airspace and the viral image is spreading wrong information.
What was the impact on passengers and changes in the routes of flights?
In view of the current situation, some changes have been made in the routes of flights, which has also affected the flight timings. According to officials:
Flights to Europe and North America are now going via Oman, Southern Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Due to this new route, the flight time has increased by about 30 to 40 minutes. Some flights bound for New York and Newark are having to make a technical stop in Rome to refuel. Some flights from Delhi to Zurich and Copenhagen also had to be cancelled.
The airline has advised passengers to check the status of their flight before leaving the airport, as plans may change depending on the circumstances.
