Air India suspends all flights operating over Middle East after Iranian strikes on Qatar, Iraq

Air India on Monday announced the immediate suspension of all flights operating over Middle Eastern airspace, following Iran’s missile strikes targeting Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which houses US forces.

The decision comes amid escalating regional tensions and the temporary closure of Qatari airspace, which serves as a crucial transit corridor for Indian aviation connecting Europe, West Asia, and Africa.

In a statement issued after the Iranian attacks, Air India Express confirmed that it had already diverted and cancelled operations on impacted routes. “As a result of the ongoing situation in the Middle East and suspension of Qatar airspace, Air India Express has diverted our Doha-bound flight from Kochi to Muscat and returned our flight bound from Kannur,” the airline spokesperson said.

Also Read: Qatar closes airspace amid threats of Iranian retaliation against US; Diverts incoming flights

The airline clarified that it currently has “no other flights bound for Qatar” and that “Air India Express has no aircraft on the ground in Qatar.”

Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier confirmed that Iranian missiles had targeted the Al-Udeid base, calling it a violation of its sovereignty and warning of further instability if hostilities continue. The base was evacuated in advance, and no casualties were reported.

Also Read: After attack on US airbase in Qatar, Iran targets Ain al-Assad in Iraq

Kuwait Airways, IndiGo and Pakistan's PIA, have all suspended flights to Middle East and issued advisories.

(More to come)