New Delhi, June 24: Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Air India Express on Monday diverted a Doha-bound flight from Kochi to Muscat and returned another flight from Kannur, following the temporary closure of Qatar’s airspace, the airline confirmed in a statement.
“Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East and the suspension of Qatar airspace, we have diverted our Doha-bound flight from Kochi to Muscat and returned our flight from Kannur. Air India Express currently has no other flights scheduled for Qatar and no aircraft on the ground in the country,” a spokesperson for the airline stated.
Passenger Safety a Priority
The airline added that it is closely monitoring the situation and working with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
“We regret the inconvenience caused due to circumstances beyond our control. Guests are requested to update their contact details for real-time updates and check their flight status on airindiaexpress.com or use the ‘Chat with Tia’ feature for cancellations and refund options,” the statement read.
Crisis in the Middle East Escalates
The operational disruptions come in the wake of a major escalation in regional tensions. On Monday, Iran reportedly launched multiple missiles targeting US military bases in Qatar and Iraq, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar—the largest US military installation in the region.
According to CNN, the missile attack was in retaliation to US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities—Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow—conducted in the early hours of Sunday.
US Officials on High Alert
US defense and intelligence officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine, are reportedly in the White House Situation Room, monitoring the escalating crisis.
Iranian state TV confirmed that the operation, titled “Operation Basharat al-Fath”, had begun, targeting American installations in Qatar. As per Samaa TV, US personnel in Qatar and Bahrain embassies are under “duck and cover” protocols due to missile threats.
Qatar Shuts Down Airspace
In response to the worsening situation, Qatar’s foreign ministry announced a temporary suspension of air traffic in the country’s airspace, citing the safety of residents and visitors. The US Embassy in Doha has issued an alert, advising American citizens to shelter in place until further notice.