March 20, New Delhi — India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, has issued a crucial safety directive for airlines amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
Citing heightened risks due to the ongoing conflict, the DGCA has asked carriers to avoid multiple high-risk airspaces, including Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and parts of Saudi Arabia and Oman.
However, Indian airlines may continue limited operations over Oman and Saudi Arabia under strict conditions. Flights must not operate below 32,000 feet in specified zones to ensure safer routing above potential threat levels.
The regulator has also mandated robust contingency planning, directing airlines to conduct detailed safety risk assessments and remain prepared for any sudden escalation.
Flight crews have been instructed to stay constantly updated with the latest NOTAMs and airspace restrictions, including for aircraft already in flight.
The advisory has come into immediate effect and will remain valid until March 28 unless revised.