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British Airways, Air India, Finnair adjust routes amid Middle East tensions

British Airways, Air India, and Finnair have modified their flight routes to safeguard passengers, following Iran’s missile strike on a U.S. military base in Qatar on Monday.

Escalating regional tensions have led airlines to steer clear of the Persian Gulf and other conflict-prone areas.

As a result, travelers may face longer journeys, detours, or potential cancellations, as carriers respond to the increased security risks in the Middle East.

IndiGo, India’s largest budget airline, on Monday warned passengers of potential delays or diversions on some flights due to rising tensions in the Middle East.

The airline said the adjustments were necessary to keep flights within safe airspace. It also advised travelers to monitor their flight status regularly, reaffirming its priority on safety while aiming to minimize inconvenience.

Similarly, Air India Express, which operates multiple routes to the Middle East, reported that a flight from Kochi to Doha, scheduled to transit through Muscat, was forced to return to Kannur.

The airline did not disclose further details but confirmed that rising regional tensions are affecting its operations. Passengers were advised to prepare for potential delays and cancellations as conditions in the Middle East remain volatile.

Kuwait Airways, the country’s national carrier, has suspended all outbound flights from Kuwait amid escalating regional tensions.

The airline cited the deteriorating security situation as the main reason for the suspension and said it is closely monitoring developments.

It also noted that it is assessing weather conditions in the region to determine when it will be safe to resume operations.

The sudden shift in the regional landscape forced airlines to act quickly, adjusting operations to navigate the growing uncertainty and ensure passenger safety.

British Airways implemented major changes to its schedule, canceling multiple flights to Dubai and diverting others mid-journey.

One flight from London Heathrow to Dubai was rerouted to Zurich after entering Saudi airspace, while another was forced to turn back to Heathrow after reaching Egyptian airspace.

Air France responded to the escalating tensions by suspending flights to and from Dubai and Riyadh on Sunday and Monday, with additional cancellations likely.

The airline attributed the decision to the volatile security situation, stressing that the measures were essential to protect the safety of passengers and crew.

Finnair, Finland’s flag carrier, took a more cautious approach by suspending all flights to Doha, Qatar, until June 30, citing continued security risks in the region.

The airline said it would closely monitor developments and review its operations as the situation unfolds.

Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines canceled two flights between Singapore and Dubai on Sunday, also citing increased safety concerns amid the growing instability in the Middle East.

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